Matteo Salvini: 'The League is one, those who disagree do not represent it'

Roberto Vannacci, a former general and founder of the right-wing party Futuro Nazionale, has unveiled a detailed policy platform outlining his vision for Italy’s future. The document, titled “Base Ideologica e Programmatica di Futuro nazionale per l’Italia del futuro,” was published online after months of refinement following its initial presentation during an assembly in Rome on June 14. The plan spans multiple areas including economics, international politics, security, immigration, justice, and energy, with a long-term horizon of ten years and two legislative terms. According to Vannacci, the core principles, life from conception to natural death, the traditional family, Christian identity, and Roman legal concepts, are non-negotiable. However, he emphasized that the program is dynamic and subject to change based on evolving conditions. The economic section of the proposal focuses heavily on tax reform. Among the key points is the reduction of income tax rates and the introduction of a true “family quotient,” which would adjust taxable income based on how many people the household actually supports. Other proposals include reducing the VAT on essential goods, reserving a portion of public job postings for parents of large families, and allowing early retirement after 41 years of contributions, provided it aligns with financial and demographic balances. Additionally, the plan calls for raising the cash transaction limit from 5,000 to 10,000 euros, aiming to encourage formal economic activity while curbing illicit transactions. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are central to the economic strategy. The party proposes gradually phasing out the current system of advance payments for self-employed individuals and small businesses, extending the principle of cash accounting to professionals and smaller firms, and revising the deductibility of business costs and depreciation rules to promote investments in productive sectors, innovation, digitalization, energy efficiency, and capital assets. The emphasis is on creating a favorable environment for investment through reduced bureaucratic burdens, easier access to credit, and support for innovation and generational turnover. A significant component of the economic plan involves strengthening strategic industries and promoting the “Made in Italy” brand globally. The text highlights the need to sustain Italian presence in international markets and reinforce key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, high-quality food production, fashion, design, specialized mechanics, high-value artisanal work, creative industries, and technological innovation. This approach aims to enhance national competitiveness and preserve industrial strengths. Futuro Nazionale also advocates for enhancing the Golden Power mechanism, which allows government intervention in cases where acquisitions or corporate operations could threaten critical infrastructure, strategic technologies, supply chains, national security, or industrial capacity. The party proposes establishing a Sovereign Growth Fund to support these objectives and ensure the protection of vital national interests. Meanwhile, tensions within the broader right-wing coalition have intensified. Matteo Salvini, leader of the League, has firmly rejected internal dissent, asserting that the party must remain unified under his leadership. He addressed critics directly, warning against fragmentation and emphasizing the importance of maintaining a cohesive front. Salvini did not address the recent rise of Futuro Nazionale in polls, which now stands at 7.8%, making it the second-largest center-right party after Forza Italia. However, he reiterated his commitment to policies such as taxing bank profits, introducing a flat tax for small businesses, revoking citizenship for immigrants who commit crimes, and advancing plans for a bridge over the Strait of Messina. Internal divisions within the League have grown, particularly among regional leaders who feel their voices are being overshadowed. Figures such as Attilio Fontana of Lombardy and others have been pushing for a more shared leadership model or even a step back from Salvini's position. These discussions have taken place in closed meetings, where some members argue that a more collaborative approach is needed to rejuvenate the party. There are indications that these leaders might formally request changes during upcoming events, potentially leading to a shift in the party’s direction. The situation has raised concerns within the League, especially in regions like Verbano, where local officials have expressed frustration with the lack of clear leadership. Critics outside the party, including members of the Pact for the North, a group composed of former Leagues members and expulsions, have accused Salvini of undermining the party’s stability. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the role of Futuro Nazionale and its potential influence on the broader right-wing alliance will likely become a focal point in the coming months.