Umberto Bossi, the founder of the Italian right-wing populist party Lega Nord, has passed away at the age of 84, as reported by AFP. Bossi began his political career in earnest in the late 1980s when he established Lega Nord, a party known for its anti-immigrant stance and for provocative claims that northern Italy should secede from the poorer southern regions of the country. His rhetoric and political strategies significantly influenced the party's direction and its popularity over the years.

Throughout his political journey, Bossi frequently allied himself with notable figures like Silvio Berlusconi and his party, Forza Italia. Despite their collaboration, there were often significant tensions between the two leaders, even during their time in government together. Bossi had a long tenure in the Italian Parliament, serving nearly 30 years, but his leadership was challenged in 2012 when he stepped down from his party leadership amid corruption allegations, which marred his legacy.

Even after Bossi's departure from a leadership role, Lega Nord, now simply known as Lega, continues to hold a position in the Italian government. Current Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni remarked on Bossi's pivotal role in shaping modern Italian right-wing politics, indicating that his influence persists in today's political landscape. His passing marks the end of an era for the party and raises questions regarding its future direction in the evolving political context of Italy.