In a compelling call to action, Ernesto Maria Ruffini, the former director of the Revenue Agency, unveiled his book, 'Più uno. La politica dell'uguaglianza', at a packed auditorium in Rome on March 22, 2025. During the event, which drew the attention of influential political figures such as Bruno Tabacci and Roberto Zaccaria, Ruffini urged citizens to awaken and engage in politics rather than waiting for party leaders to take the initiative.
Notably, Ruffini emphasized that creating a new political party is not the answer. “There’s no need for it,” he stated while responding to a question from journalist Giovanni Floris. He expressed concern about the number of existing parties and the effects that personal allegiance to political figures can have on voters. Instead, Ruffini called for a grassroots movement where every citizen plays a role in shaping the future of the nation.
His message was clear: “Every citizen can do something for this country,” he said. His rallying cry resonates particularly in light of the recent filled Piazza del Popolo, where citizens gathered after an appeal from fellow journalist Michele Serra. Such events highlight a growing desire among people to be active participants in the political landscape.
Ruffini stated that, “All of us are extraordinarily useful, and that makes us responsible. We are all called to do something.” This inclusive approach aims to empower citizens beyond traditional party structures. Drawing on the past, he referenced a time when people did not sit idle at home but actively participated in discussions to influence policy and ideas.
His urgency was matched by that of Romano Prodi, also a speaker of the evening, who presented his own book, 'Il dovere della speranza' in a nearby room. Prodi echoed the sentiment that an effective coalition needs to be formed swiftly as the political arena approaches a critical juncture in the upcoming elections. “A winning coalition must be built quickly for the upcoming elections; we are halfway through the legislature,” he emphasized, urging people to focus not on leadership disputes but on creating a framework for collaboration.
In contrast to the prevailing discussion about political leadership, both Ruffini and Prodi suggested that the focus should instead be on generating ideas and consensus. Prodi warned against losing sight of these fundamental questions that could define the strength of the opposition. “The problem today is not who is the prime minister but how we form a coalition,” he observed, insisting that each political player must contribute meaningfully to an orchestrated effort.
During his address, Ruffini also criticized the inertia of the current political environment, stating that “If the alternative of the center-left is inadequate, then citizens need to awaken.” He expressed particular concern regarding the reaction of the left to calls for participation, stating, “If we shout ‘the wolf is coming’ we must draw consequences or we are not credible.” This comment is indicative of the frustrations felt by many regarding the perceived delays and disorganization among political parties.
The atmosphere of the event took on a participatory tone, with Ruffini encouraging open dialogue and the sharing of ideas, suggesting that collaboration is essential to establish a strong political alternative. He noted, “I do not have answers, but I suggest a method: to begin talking and listening to each other because that’s how ideas and proposals are born.” This established a theme that resonated throughout the presentation, one that emphasized the necessity of bridging divides and working together for the common good.
Ruffini’s calls to action included a plea for political parties to be more receptive when citizens become involved. He reminded attendees that “parties pay attention when citizens wake up.” Thus, there is a mutual relationship that requires active participation from both sides.
