Overview

• Katharina Zeller, the newly elected mayor of Merano, removed the Italian tricolor sash during her inauguration, citing local traditions favoring the city's medallion.
• The gesture drew strong criticism from national political figures, including accusations of disrespect toward Italian institutions and symbols.
• Zeller issued an apology, clarifying that her actions were not intended as disdain for the Republic and committing to wear the sash at formal ceremonies as required by protocol.
• The Südtiroler Volkspartei (SVP), Zeller's party, defended her stance, emphasizing that there is no legal obligation to wear the sash during informal ceremonies.
• Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reaffirmed the tricolor's role as a vital symbol of national unity, intensifying the broader debate on regional autonomy and national identity.