Elly Schlein, leader of Italy's Democratic Party (PD), has firmly rejected Carlo Calenda's proposal for a broad coalition of centrist and reformist parties.

Calenda's idea, aimed at uniting forces like Forza Italia, Azione, and parts of the PD, received little support from key political figures.

Schlein criticized Calenda's "two-sided" approach, emphasizing her commitment to a progressive coalition without backroom deals.

She sees an alliance with Giuseppe Conte's Five Star Movement as essential for winning future elections.

Meanwhile, Calenda defended his centrist stance, but his proposal has largely been dismissed by other parties, including Forza Italia and Italia Viva.

The debate highlights deep divisions within Italy's opposition as they strategize for upcoming elections.