Roman Councilor Parts Ways with Five Star Movement
A Growing Rift Within the Movement Fuels Speculation
In a move that signals increasing tension within the Five Star Movement, a prominent Roman councilor has announced his departure from the group. Antonio De Santis, a key figure who served under former Mayor Virginia Raggi, cited a lack of alignment with the Movement’s new direction as the reason for his decision.
“Dear friends,” De Santis wrote in his farewell message. “I am leaving the groups. I don’t see myself in this new direction, and for some time now, I have registered a lack of will to enhance the civic project I represent. Without rancor and with the hope of being able to collaborate in the future. Good luck to everyone, Antonio.”
This departure comes at a delicate time for the Five Star Movement in Rome. Following the prominence of Virginia Raggi, whose political profile was often perceived as low-key, the movement has seen a gradual shrinking of its presence in the City Council.
A Step Towards Independence?
Political analysts suggest De Santis’s exit may be the first step towards a complete break with the Movement. Speculation is mounting that the councilor may dissolve his “Civica Raggi” group, named after the former mayor, and join the ranks of the Mixed Group.
This maneuver would effectively mark De Santis’s formal abandonment of the Five Star Movement, despite maintaining a solid electoral base. It signals a growing discontent within the ranks and a potential divergence in ideological direction.
Uncertain Future for the Movement
De Santis’s departure raises questions about the Five Star Movement’s future in Rome. With internal rifts becoming more apparent, the Movement may struggle to maintain its influence in the political landscape.
How has the Five Star Movement’s use of technology for political engagement evolved since its inception?
## Five Star Fallout: Interview with Political Analyst
**Host**: Welcome back to the show. Joining us today to discuss the recent departure of Councilor Antonio De Santis from the Five Star Movement is political analyst Dr. Maria Rossi. Dr. Rossi, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Rossi**: Thank you for having me.
**Host**: So, Councilor De Santis, a key figure in Rome’s Five Star Movement, has announced he’s leaving. What are your thoughts on this development?
**Dr. Rossi**: This is certainly a significant development reflecting a growing rift within the Five Star Movement. De Santis was a prominent figure, having served under former Mayor Virginia Raggi. His departure suggests a deeper ideological divide within the movement, as he cited a “lack of alignment with the new direction.”
**Host**: Can you elaborate on this “new direction”? What changes have we seen within the Five Star Movement recently?
**Dr. Rossi**: The Five Star Movement was originally founded on principles of direct democracy, leveraging technology for citizen engagement through online platforms. [[1](https://www.weforum.org/stories/2018/03/how-italy’s-five-star-movement-could-redefine-populism/)]However, there have been shifts recently in their policies and leadership which have alienated some of its original base.
**Host**: So, is this just an isolated incident, or could this be indicative of a larger trend within the movement?
**Dr. Rossi**: It’s too early to say definitively, but De Santis’ departure, coupled with recent internal debates and policy shifts, could indeed signal a broader trend. The Five Star Movement faces the challenge of remaining true to its populist roots while adapting to the evolving political landscape.
**Host**: What does this mean for the future of the Five Star Movement?
**Dr. Rossi**: This split could ultimately weaken the movement if they fail to address the concerns of their departing members and re-establish a clear ideological core. It will be crucial for them to find a way to unite their existing base while attracting new supporters.
**Host**: Dr. Rossi, thank you for your valuable insights.
