Marco Rizzo Leaves His Own Party: Vannacci Sparks Political Earthquake in Italy
In a dramatic turn of events within Italy’s political landscape, Marco Rizzo, the former coordinator of Democrazia Sovrana Popolare (DSP), has effectively abandoned the party he co-founded in 2022. The rupture, fueled by the controversial figure of General Roberto Vannacci, has left Rizzo isolated and searching for allies to launch a new political project. The crisis culminated during the party’s congress in Rome, where Rizzo notably failed to appear, leading to his marginalization and a formal request for his resignation from party president Francesco Toscano.
Democrazia Sovrana Popolare began as an electoral list in 2022, securing 1.2% of the vote in the general elections. It later evolved into a full-fledged party in 2024. However, internal divisions over strategy and ideology—particularly regarding Vannacci, a polarizing military figure known for his outspoken views—have now split the party. Rizzo, a former member of the European Parliament, has been vocal about his admiration for Vannacci, which clashed with the party’s direction under Toscano. This disagreement has pushed Rizzo to seek a new political home, one inspired by Vannacci’s populist and nationalist appeal.
Rizzo has already hinted at his next move through a video on YouTube, where he outlined plans for a new party. He is reportedly in talks with other politicians who share his vision, aiming to capitalize on Vannacci’s growing popularity among disenchanted voters. The split underscores the volatile nature of Italy’s political fringe, where personal ambitions and ideological battles often reshape alliances. For now, DSP remains under Toscano’s leadership, but the departure of its co-founder marks a significant blow to the party’s credibility and future prospects.
As Rizzo prepares to launch his new venture, the Italian political scene watches closely. His ability to attract support will depend on whether he can channel Vannacci’s momentum into a viable electoral force. Meanwhile, the DSP faces an uncertain path, having lost one of its most recognizable figures. This episode highlights the enduring influence of strong personalities in Italian politics and the constant realignment of smaller parties seeking relevance in a fragmented system.
Shimanta Das 
