Carriers of 147 migrants have asked the court to sentence former Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini to 6 years in prison on charges of violating human rights by preventing a boat from crowding the Italian coast.

The members of the party gathered in support of the country's League Parter, terming such charges against this leader as political justice.

It is learned that many processes are still pending before the final punishment. Importantly, however, this week's hearing will be on the open arms trial involving League party leader Matteo Salvini. After Italian prosecutors requested a six-year prison sentence, his lawyer Giulia Bongiorno will present his closing arguments, explaining why the former interior minister is innocent.

A few days ago, right-wing leaders of Patriots for Europe rallied in support of Salvini in Pontida. His supporters have collected signatures in his defense and a group of League party members plan to take to the streets of Palermo on Friday to show their support.

"We decided to go with him because we believe it's a political trial and as a political party we want to show Italians that we support our leader," League MP Simona Loizo said. "Most importantly, we want to emphasize that the judiciary takes advantage of these episodes for their political purposes."

The former interior minister has been charged with kidnapping for refusing to disembark 147 migrants rescued by Spanish NGO Open Arms in Lampedusa in 2019. The all-clear to land in Italy arrived just 19 days later.

Prosecutors argue that, under the "SAR Convention", anyone found in distress at sea must be assisted and provided a place of safety. They further claimed that the minister took this decision for his political advantage.

"Salvini, as interior minister, acted within the power of his role and the political mandate given to him," Loizo noted, adding that "he had the support of other coalition parties in the government at the time. Assistance was given, and minors were allowed to go down. It seems The entire league team has been brought to justice.” Former Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte and former Foreign Minister Luigi Maio were called as witnesses in the trial.

Matteo Salvini, who was acquitted in July 2019 in a similar case involving migrants rescued by the Gregoretti coast guard ship, has said he does not regret his actions and that he did it to protect the country. And while awaiting the final sentence, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Deputy PM Antonio Tajani expressed their solidarity with the minister.

If convicted, he could be barred from holding public office. But it may take time to take effect as the league leader may decide to appeal the judge's decision.