In Catania, tensions are escalating within the local political landscape as members of the majority coalition question the commitment of the Grande Catania-Mpa to support Mayor Trantino's administration. On March 22, 2025, Luca Sangiorgio, the Municipal Coordinator of Fratelli d'Italia Catania, voiced his concerns following a crucial council vote on the Port Regulatory Plan (PRP), which was approved with 23 votes in favor, 2 against, and 1 abstention. Sangiorgio highlighted the absence of all councilors from the autonomist group during this critical discussion, considering it a 'politically grave' mistake.
'Ritengo politicamente grave l’assenza in Aula dei consiglieri di Grande Catania-Mpa,' Sangiorgio said, emphasizing the importance of the council's duty to evaluate the fundamental topic of port development for the city. His remarks came amidst growing unease regarding the level of cooperation between the different political factions within the city government.
The absence of Grande Catania-Mpa members was particularly notable, as they had previously presented a motion to postpone the debate on the PRP, raising questions about their loyalty to the administration. Sangiorgio stated, 'Al Sindaco Trantino – dico di andare avanti nella realizzazione della sua idea di città con ancora maggiore convinzione, cominciando però a porsi serie domande sull’affidabilità di alcuni presunti alleati,' urging the mayor to assess the reliability of his purported allies.
Sangiorgio’s remarks were underscored by concerns regarding recent abstentions from important votes, including those related to the pedestrianization of the area around Castello Ursino and the acquisition of a property in Via Mameli. These actions have led to speculation about Grande Catania-Mpa's ongoing alignment with the governing coalition, raising questions about their intent and future collaboration.
In response to these criticisms, Pina Alberghina, coordinator of Mpa Catania, reaffirmed her party's support for Mayor Trantino. She stated, 'Grande Catania-Mpa sostiene il sindaco Trantino' and stressed the importance of a development model that reflects the city’s history and future aspirations. Alberghina emphasized the necessity of dialogue, saying, 'Noi a Trantino chiediamo spazio, spazio all’ascolto, al dialogo franco e democratico, al confronto che arricchisce.'
Mpa Catania has previously voiced different approaches to the pedestrianization of Piazza Castello Ursino, aiming to consider the impact on local businesses. The mayor has recently acknowledged the need for a more balanced approach, resulting from their expressed concerns.
Moreover, they had reservations about a controversial 25-year finance project designed for the management of services in the ports of Catania and Augusta, which faced suspension by the National Anti-Corruption Authority after Mpa Catania raised objections.
This ongoing political drama highlights broader issues within Catania's local governance. As Mayor Trantino grapples with a challenging political landscape marked by criticisms and calls for clarity, the need for unity and constructive dialogue among all constituents becomes increasingly apparent.
The tension reflects a common theme in modern governance: balancing varying interests while fostering productive collaboration. The recent events highlight the necessity for all political factions, including Grande Catania-Mpa and Fratelli d'Italia, to align their visions for the city’s future. As public interest remains heightened around these developments, city officials must navigate these challenges carefully to maintain stability in Catania’s government.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on Mayor Trantino as he attempts to forge consensus among his allies and ensure the sustainable development of Catania's port and other pivotal projects that directly impact local communities. The calls for unity not only reflect the necessity for collaborative governance but also recognize the critical role of local politicians in shaping a vibrant and economically thriving Catania.
