Italy’s president accepts Conte’s resignation, calls for consultations

Giuseppe Conte

ROME, Aug 21 (NNN-AGENCIES) — Italian President Sergio Mattarella has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and will kick off consultations with party leaders on Wednesday to seek a solution to the political crisis, his office said.

Mattarella will start his meetings at 4.00 p.m. on Wednesday and wrap them up on Thursday afternoon.

He is expected to see whether there is the political will to form a new government. If not, he will have to dissolve parliament, 3-1/2 years ahead of schedule, and call early elections.