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Sunday, Feb 22, 2026

Conte's Triumph: The Exit of Grillo and the Future of M5S

Giuseppe Conte solidifies his leadership as the 5-Star Movement turns a new page
In a decisive victory for Giuseppe Conte, the Five Star Movement (M5S) has reiterated its confidence in his leadership with a stronger turnout for a re-vote on key amendments to the party's statutes.

While Beppe Grillo, the erstwhile comedian who founded the M5S, has now been sidelined, Conte emerges fortified, ready to usher the movement into a new phase.

On this pivotal vote, 64.9% of registered members participated, with an overwhelming 80.5% supporting the removal of Grillo's role as guarantor, an increase from earlier tallies.

'The M5S has voiced its united vision once again, surpassing quorum with even greater enthusiasm than before,' Conte declared, signifying a transformative moment for the party as it seeks to redefine its path.

The implications stretch beyond a mere internal shuffle; they signal a commitment to renewing the party’s strategies and policies.

Central to this is Conte’s ambition to revise the two-term limit for parliamentary service, a reform introduced under the early M5S ethos that has drawn mixed reactions from the rank and file.

The impending adjustments to the party’s rules seek to balance experience with renewal, a task that has previously been inhibited by Grillo’s traditional stance.

The international implications of this shift are notable, as the M5S has played a significant role in Italy's nuanced political spectrum.

Conte's intention to redirect funds from military spending to sectors like automotive and energy transition speaks to a broader strategy of alignment with European priorities, dovetailing Italy's renewed global commitments with domestic reforms.

Yet, as the former Prime Minister plans his strategies at upcoming political congregations such as Atreju, the question remains whether Grillo will retreat entirely or find new ways to assert his influence outside mainstream M5S channels.

Conte, however, seems less concerned about this potential friction, opting instead to focus on aligning with broader progressive ideals, potentially collaborating with allies while maintaining M5S’s distinct identity.

The next steps involve consolidating these new statutes, empowering a more expansive range of political careers within the movement, and framing a clear, autonomous policy vision that can adapt to upcoming electoral challenges.

As Italy faces significant socio-political and economic tests, the transformation of the M5S could well be indicative of wider shifts within the country’s political landscape, challenging other parties to reassess their strategies.

In a scene as dynamic as Italy’s, the ramifications of M5S’s internal revolution might set the stage for new alliances and oppositions.

While Grillo cites Truman's farewell with sentiment and humor, the real denouement will unfold over Italy’s political terrain as Conte’s new course takes shape.
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