In the heated electoral climate preceding the March 22-23 referendum, Salvatore Borsellino, brother of the late anti-mafia judge Paolo Borsellino, expressed his belief that mafiosi would vote in favor of the proposed justice reform. He aligns his views with those of Nicola Gratteri, the chief prosecutor of Naples, who stated that individuals under investigation and members of corrupt organizations would likely support the referendum in hopes of maneuvering through a justice system that lacks efficiency. This assertion underscores a broader concern about how the proposed reforms could affect the integrity of the judiciary.

Borsellino articulated that his brother Paolo was deeply worried about the potential compromise to the independence of the judiciary, citing a fear that separating careers in the judicial system might place magistrates under the influence of political power. This concern reflects a significant debate in Italy regarding proposed reforms, which some see as necessary for enhancing efficiency in the justice system, while others view it as threatening to the rule of law and the operational autonomy of the courts. As political tensions rise, these discussions become crucial in the context of organized crime's longstanding influence in Italian society.

The statements made by Borsellino not only bring historical context to the current judicial debates but also serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against mafia influence in Italy. As voters prepare for the referendum, the perspectives of figures such as Borsellino and Gratteri will play an essential role in shaping public perception and ultimately influencing the outcome of the vote, stressing the need for an informed electorate that understands the implications of the proposed reforms on judicial integrity and the fight against organized crime.