Renzi on course to lose crucial constitutional reform referendum

[brooklynite]

Source: CNBC

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has suffered what looks set to be a humiliating defeat in a referendum over his plan to reform the constitution, throwing the country and the euro zone into confusion.

According to early official projections, a sizable majority of voters have rejected the reform measures proposed by Renzi.

What was originally a rather dry referendum on constitutional change has turned into a high-stakes game with the political and economic stability of Italy—and ultimately the euro zone—at risk.

Read more: http://www.cnbc.com/2016/12/04/italian-exit-polls-show-prime-minister-matteo-renzi-losing-constitutional-reform-referendum-reuters.html

[Eugene]

1. Italy referendum: PM Matteo Renzi resigns after clear referendum defeat

Source: BBC

Italy referendum: PM Matteo Renzi resigns after clear referendum defeat

4 December 2016 Europe

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has resigned after suffering a heavy defeat in a referendum over his plan to reform the constitution.

In a late-night statement, he said took responsibility for the outcome. He said the No camp must now make clear proposals.

An exit poll for state broadcaster RAI suggests 42-46% voted to back reform, compared with 54-58% voting No.

The first projections based on the official count point to a wider defeat.

Early indications have the Yes vote at 39-43% and the No at 57-61%.

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Read more: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-38204189