The 5-Star Movement is preparing for a major transformation, with a pivotal congress scheduled for November 23 and 24 at the Palazzo dei Congressi in Rome. The event will mark the end of an era and the beginning of a new phase for the movement, with Giuseppe Conte solidifying his dominance while Beppe Grillo, the movement’s founder, loses influence.
The congress will feature the approval of a new statute, marking the final step in reshaping the movement. Grillo, once considered the face and leader of the 5-Star Movement, will have his role severely diminished. The “guarantee” position, previously held by Grillo, will become purely honorary, signaling his departure from the movement’s future leadership. This is the final break from the “Elevated” era, as the movement shifts its focus to the future.
The reform process has been in the works since August, beginning with 22,000 contributions and 145 discussions. A randomly selected group of 360 members and non-members have been engaged in deliberative discussions, shaping the future of the movement. The upcoming vote will determine the next steps, with further public debates expected to guide the final decisions ahead of the congress.
Central to the ongoing discussions is the question of leadership, with proposals for changes to the presidency and the two-term limit for elected positions. Options include eliminating or modifying the two-term rule, introducing new candidacy requirements for leadership roles, and even rethinking alliances. As the movement moves toward a new identity, the shift towards a more progressive stance appears to be gaining traction, representing a final “rebuke” to Grillo’s vision.
