Ready for President of the Republic, hints that Draghi is in Italy

Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi has hinted that he will be willing to become head of state when the post becomes vacant, early next year, saying the unity government he leads has already completed much of its agenda.

Parliament will meet to elect a new president in January, and the former head of the European Central Bank is the front-runner to replace Sergio Matarella, who has made it clear he does not want another seven-year term.

Sending the clearest message that he would accept the position, Draghi said his 10-month government had laid the groundwork for the continuation of key work, including the implementation of a multibillion-euro EU recovery fund.

“We have created the conditions for the work to continue, regardless of who will be (in charge),” Draghi said in a traditional press conference later this year, making it clear he was ready to change roles if lawmakers wanted it.

“My personal fate does not matter. I have no particular ambitions, I am, if you will, a grandfather in the service of the institutions,” Draghi said.

The president has become an increasingly institutionalized role in Italy in recent years, and has been repeatedly called upon to resolve political deadlocks following national elections and to overcome crises in governing coalitions.

Although the much-respected Draghi is seen as a natural choice by many Italians, several political leaders are urging him to remain at the helm of the broad coalition, warning that he could be ousted if he leaves the helm of government.

Presidential candidates usually do not declare their intention before their election to the government, which is conducted by secret ballot by both houses of Parliament, as well as by representatives from the 20 regions of Italy.