Conte’s resignation saw Italy take a step closer to early elections in light of the recent political crisis.
In his highly-anticipated speech on Tuesday afternoon, Conte launched a scathing attack on League leader Salvini, who also serves as deputy prime minister, calling him “irresponsible” for his attempt to bring down the government and force snap elections.
“[Salvini] violated the solemn promise he took when the government began that if there were differences they should be discussed in good faith and with loyal collaboration,” Conte said as League senators booed and Salvini shook his head and rolled is eyes.
Conte’s address came following a week of political crisis from Salvini’s decision to pull the plug on the alliance with the Five Star Movement (M5S) on August 8, plunging the economy into turmoil.
After Conte announced his intention to resign, Salvini hit back saying: “Thank you, finally, I would do it all again.”
Salvini then gave his own speech in which he spoke about migration – a topic Conte had previously said the interior minister was “obsessed” with.
During Salvini’s speech, dozens of senators left the room while one was reprimanded by the Senate’s president for holding up a protest sign.
A small group of protesters heckled League senators as they arrived at the Senate.
“Get out, buffoons, get out, mafia,” the protesters shouted, prompting a League senator to wave his middle finger at them.
Conte, who belongs to neither of the coalition’s two parties, was expected to offer his formal resignation on Tuesday evening, allowing the head of state to start formal consultations with parties to see if a new coalition can be formed.
Failing that, President Sergio Mattarella would dissolve Parliament.
Salvini has demanded early elections, three and a half years ahead of schedule, confident his surging popularity will sweep him into power and push the M5S into opposition.
