Napolitano's election is good news for Prodi

[Judi Lynn]

Napolitano's election is good news for Prodi
By Nicholas Rigillo May 10, 2006, 15:29 GMT

Rome - The election Wednesday of former communist Giorgio Napolitano to the post of president of the Italian republic represents a double victory for Romano Prodi and a setback for outgoing prime minister Silvio Berlusconi.

First and foremost, it strengthens Prodi's future centre-left government, which faces a rocky ride following its narrowest of victories in last month's general election.

Secondly, it finally gives full institutional legitimacy to the heirs of Italy's once mighty Communist Party in spite of Berlusconi's claims that they still represent a threat to democracy.

A highly respected life senator, Napolitano was backed by Prodi's Union coalition and was elected with 543 votes during a fourth round of voting.

The show of support was better than some had anticipated.
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http://news.monstersandcritics.com/europe/article_1162859.php/Napolitanos_election_is_good_news_for_Prodi

[Sapere aude]

1. Napolitano is my grandmothers maiden name. She was from Naples.

Maybe I'm related.