Italians gathered in Rome stage a protest against the decision to extend the state of emergency

Rome, April 25 (RHC)-- Italians gathered at Rome's Circus Maximus field to stage a protest against the government's decision to extend the state of emergency until July 31.

The demonstration dubbed "Front of dissent national assembly" was joined by people from all walks of life who demanded the Draghi executive the reopening of commercial activities and a proper compensation for all business owners affected by the pandemic restrictions.

Italian authorities have reported that over 4,500 anti-Covid restrictions protests have been held in cities and towns across the country since January first. While initial lockdowns to control the pandemic were widely accepted, business owners whose activities are not deemed essential have increasingly taken to the streets after learning about shutdown extension.

Demonstrations have often turned nasty with scuffles between police and protesters breaking out several times. Meanwhile Italy's COVID-19 reproduction number has been slowly falling according to health authorities.  Also pressure has eased slightly on the country's health services.