Burgio challenges the regional norm: the mayor of Serradifalco and son of the regional councilor runs for a third term.

An unexpected political move, one that embarrasses regional politics and jeopardizes balances. The decision to run for a third term comes from the mayor of Serradifalco, Leonardo Burgio, who is the provincial commissioner of the League and is also the son of the Forza Italia health assessor Daniela Faraoni. Burgio announced his intention to run for a third term, motivated by a deep bond with the local community and a sense of responsibility towards the citizens. This decision comes despite the rejection by the Sicilian Regional Assembly (Ars) of the rule that would have allowed third terms for mayors of municipalities with fewer than 15,000 inhabitants. Burgio bases his choice on the ruling of the Constitutional Court on February 19, which he believes has definitively clarified the regulatory framework, rendering the second vote of the Ars obsolete.

The debate on the third term in Sicily Burgio's position is part of the heated Sicilian debate on limitations to mayoral terms. Initially, the mayor had accepted the rejection of the bill in respect of the institutions, seeking a balanced solution. Today, however, the ruling of the Consulta – which recognizes the principle of the right to passive suffrage that cannot be arbitrarily restricted – changes the scenario: "Justice cannot ignore this unequivocal jurisprudential direction", Burgio stated.

This interpretation opens the door to legal challenges in various Sicilian municipalities with fewer than 15,000 inhabitants, where outgoing mayors aspire to a third term. Sicily remains the only Italian region with such strict restrictions, fueling criticism over a disparity between "first-class and second-class mayors".

Personal reasons and daily commitment "A battle of principle, but also of love for the territory": this is how Burgio describes his choice, emphasizing that it is not about personal ambition. "In my life, I could dedicate myself to other things – he continued – but being a mayor is a total commitment: from the early hours of the morning to late at night, between listening to citizens, finding solutions to problems, and making collective decisions. This bond with Serradifalco, a municipality in the province of Caltanissetta known for its socio-economic challenges, guides his daily responsibility.

Future prospects and local impact The announcement rekindles interest in the municipal elections in Sicily for 2026, with potential appeals that could overturn current regulations. For the citizens of Serradifalco, this means administrative continuity in a context of PNRR funds and rural development. Burgio's move could inspire other island mayors, placing Sicily at the center of the national debate on local democracy.