After his acquittal in the Open Arms case, Matteo Salvini marked the occasion with public celebrations in Rome’s Largo di Torre Argentina. Addressing supporters, the deputy prime minister hailed the court’s decision as “fair and expected” while underscoring the urgency of judicial reforms. “Separation of judicial careers and civil liability for deliberate judicial misconduct are essential,” he declared. Salvini’s remarks come ahead of Parliament’s vote on justice reform, the first order of business after the holiday recess. Giuseppe Tango, a prominent judge and head of the ANM labor section in Palermo, refuted Salvini’s stance, stating, “The ruling demonstrates that there is no judicial agenda to influence politics. Calls for separating judicial roles are unfounded.”
Salvini, flanked by young League members waving banners reading “The facts don’t exist,” reiterated his commitment to justice reform during a second event in Milan. Reflecting on his time as interior minister, Salvini claimed the trial had cost millions of euros and served as a political obstacle. “The verdict proves I acted correctly and reassures future ministers in performing their duties,” he said. Salvini also mentioned support from various political figures, including Giorgia Meloni and even tech billionaire Elon Musk, calling Musk “an enlightened individual.”
Tensions reignited between Salvini and Giuseppe Conte, who served as prime minister during the Open Arms incident. Salvini accused Conte of shirking responsibility, saying, “Unlike others, I face my actions head-on.” Conte fired back, denying that his immigration policies included Salvini’s controversial “closed ports” stance. “It’s propaganda, just like Meloni’s ‘naval blockade’ promises, despite record arrivals in 2023,” Conte said in a televised response.
Speculation about Salvini’s return to the Ministry of the Interior was quickly downplayed. While he acknowledged his past role was “correct and effective,” he expressed satisfaction with his current position as Minister of Transport. “For now, I’m happy where I am,” Salvini remarked, though he left the possibility open for the future. He also voiced confidence in Matteo Piantedosi, his successor, calling him “a friend and brother.” Meanwhile, the judiciary remained firm in defending its independence, with ANM’s Tango asserting, “The autonomy of judges has been reaffirmed, and judicial reforms must focus on real issues rather than ideological debates.”
