Mafia vote-buying law approved despite angry protests

P(By Paul Virgo) (ANSA) – Rome, April 16 – The Senate on Wednesday gave final approval to a law making it a crime for politicians to promise to buy or otherwise obtain votes raised by the mafia despite angry protests from the anti-establishment 5-Star Movement (M5S).BRThe bill was approved with 191 votes in favour, 32 against and 18 abstentions. The law amends legislation introduced after the 1992 Mafia slayings of prosecutors Paolo Borsellino and Giovanni Falcone which made anyone paying the mob in exchange for votes punishable with seven to 12 years in prison.BRUnder the new legislation, which was backed by the mainstream parties, prison terms for vote buying will now range from four to 10 years.BRThis is the main reason the bill was hit by fiery protests from the M5S during its passage through parliament and these continued Wednesday. The Speaker had to suspend the debate before the final vote several times as the M5S shouted protests and insults at members of other parties.BRAt one point two M5S Senators were expelled for making it impossible for lawmakers from other parties to speak with their constant, noisy interruptions.BRSupporters say the new law is an important step forward ahead of next month’s European elections as it extends the definition of the crime of vote-buying to any form of reward to the Mob in exchange for votes, not just cash.BRThe bill criminalizes anyone who agrees to procure votes in exchange for a promise of money, public contracts, political protection, or any other kind of advantage to the Mob.BR/P
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