Italy dissolves parliament ahead of general election Italian President Sergio Mattarella, has dissolved parliament, to pave the way for general election in March next year. The government met shortly after Mr. Mattarella's decree was announced, and confirmed the election date. The ruling centre-left Democratic Party faces a strong challenge from anti-establishment Five Star and right-wing Forza Italia, who want tough measures to curb immigration. SOURCE: BBC NEWS ---DECRYPTED---