Italy's 5-Star Movement elects former PM Conte as leader

Former Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte speaks at a news conference to discuss the 5-Star political party, in Rome, Italy, June 28, 2021. REUTERS/Remo Casilli

ROME (Reuters) - Italy's former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has been officially elected leader of the 5-Star Movement, ending months of uncertainty and division since he was first asked to head up the troubled party in February.

5-Star is the largest group in parliament following its triumph at 2018 elections when it took 32% of the vote, but its support has ebbed due to infighting and policy U-turns and it is now polling at around 16%.