CALABRIA – Outgoing Regional Governor Roberto Occhiuto has dismissed suggestions of reconsidering his resignation, stating: “Second thoughts? Absolutely not. The only matter is setting the election date.” Speaking at Forza Italia’s Southern Italy summit in Villa San Giovanni, Occhiuto confirmed he will formally tender his resignation early next week after consulting coalition partners.
“I will decide the date with the leadership of my supporting coalition at both regional and national levels,” Occhiuto explained. “Since the resignation date impacts the election timing, I’ve taken a few days, but expect to formally submit it at the start of next week.”
The governor emphasized broad backing for his decision: “When I shared my intention with national coalition leaders, I received very positive feedback. I wouldn’t have resigned without their consent. There are no issues on that front.” He acknowledged the early termination of the legislative term is “not the best outcome” for regional councilors but asserted “full support” from his political team.
Occhiuto addressed his ongoing legal situation, calling it “painful” as his first such experience: “I’ve clarified everything and bear no grievance toward the judiciary. My resignation isn’t due to the investigation notice itself, but because its negative repercussions on regional administration have been severe. I also need to reassess the trust relationship between myself and Calabrians.”
Responding to opposition criticism, Occhiuto noted their contradictory stance: “They typically demand resignations, yet when a president steps down to let citizens decide, they contest that too. Every leader faces reproach – I myself wish I could have achieved more in certain areas. But I accomplished all I could, making extraordinary sacrifices for this region, even risking my health.”
© Copyright ANSA. All rights reserved.