Raffaele Costa, a prominent pillar of the Italian political landscape and former national secretary of the Italian Liberal Party, has died at the age of 90. Entering parliament in 1976, Costa carved out a legendary reputation during the turbulent transition between the First and Second Republics as an uncompromising opponent of excessive bureaucracy. Serving as a key minister across the Amato, Ciampi, and Berlusconi I governments in the 1990s, he earned widespread acclaim for aggressive "blitzes" aimed at curbing public healthcare waste and enforcing strict fiscal responsibility.
Beyond his national ministerial portfolios, Costa's extensive institutional career spanned the European Parliament, the presidency of the Cuneo province, and a narrow mayoral bid in Turin. Political leaders from across the spectrum - including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Piedmont Governor Alberto Cirio, and Chamber President Lorenzo Fontana - shared heartfelt tributes, honoring his lifelong dedication to the state and his championing of liberal economic ideals. His political legacy is actively carried forward by his son, Enrico Costa, current group leader for Forza Italia in the Chamber of Deputies.