Beppe Grillo raises the tone of his protest against Giuseppe Conte regarding the leadership of the 5 Star Movement, stating that he is claiming “the right to extinction” of a party that he now says he no longer recognizes. This statement, typical of his style between the dramatic and the legal, has provoked reactions among the current members of the Movement, who defend their commitment to the original project. In particular, Conte underlines the importance of the constituent phase he initiated to guarantee the M5S a vision projected towards the future.

Previously, Grillo had spoken of the “biodegradability” of the M5S in a positive context, arguing that when citizens had the tools to hold remote referendums, the movement could also dissolve. In this regard, in March 2018 he declared: “We are a biodegradable movement”. However, in today’s blog post, while maintaining the terminology “biodegradable” and “compostable”, his vision appears radically changed.

Grillo says: “As the founder of the movement, I claim my right to extinction. Seeing this 5 Star flag with Conte in front talking about direct democracy makes me sick. If he wants to create his own party with a manifesto and his pretty face, go ahead.” He criticizes the constituent phase wanted by Conte, complaining that he was excluded from the decisions: “The movement no longer exists; it has evaporated.” For Grillo, it is a very different reality compared to his original idea of ​​M5s as an innovative force. While admitting that he has gone out of fashion, he maintains that there are still extraordinary ideas to explore for the future.

The founder’s statements have provoked different reactions among the Movement’s parliamentarians. Some have expressed gratitude towards Grillo but have also claimed their commitment to the current project. Others, like Vittoria Baldino, have criticized Grillo’s paternalistic attitude towards them: “He cannot treat us as if we were incapable,” she said.

In the meantime, Giuseppe Conte preferred not to enter into direct controversy during his electoral campaign in Emilia Romagna. However, he stressed that the Movement has not “evaporated” at all. The constituent phase underway is involving numerous members and even young people and minors who are actively participating in the deliberative debate. Conte therefore believes that instead of being in decline, the M5s is renewing itself and becoming increasingly active.

These statements are therefore an attempt to minimize internal tensions and demonstrate that there is a real constituent process underway. Conte is ready to face possible legal action by Grillo but remains convinced of the importance of the direction taken by the Movement.