Monsignor Francesco Savino, the second in command at CEI, decided not to attend the XXV Congress of Magistratura Democratica, a decision that came ahead of the polling date for a referendum. His absence was notable during a roundtable titled "The Intolerance towards the Rule of Law and the New Face of the Leader," which led to speculation about the reasons behind his withdrawal. Savino's decision to not attend seems influenced by the prevailing tensions, where he felt compelled to clarify that his initial acceptance was misinterpreted by others as an implicit endorsement of the 'No' vote against the Nordio reform.

In a letter read out at the congress, Savino expressed disappointment that substance was overshadowed by noise, indicating that his absence should not be misconstrued as a political statement. He emphasized that his participation was not to serve as any indication of voting direction, highlighting the polarized interpretations attributed to his engagement with the event. This scenario reflects a broader unease within certain circles of Italian society, where political affiliations significantly impact public discourse and influence the narratives around issues of justice and reform.

The implications of Savino's withdrawal extend beyond the immediate event, revealing ongoing tensions within the Catholic Church's involvement in public policy debates. As political factions brace for the upcoming referendum, the incident raises questions about the role of religious leaders in shaping or refraining from political discourse. This circumstance illustrates the delicate balance between ecclesiastical authority and civic engagement, especially in a context marked by calls for legal reforms and shifts in the justice system.