SILVIO BERLUSCONI, FORMER ITALIAN PRIME MINISTER, IS DEAD AT 86

Berlusconi dies at 86.

He was hospitalised on Friday at San Raffaele Hospital in Milan.

Berlusconi had previously been in the hospital for six weeks of treatment for a lung infection linked to a chronic Myelomonocytic leukaemia (CML).

Silvio Berlusconi, the ex-Italian prime minister, passed away at the age of 86. He was admitted to San Raffaele Hospital in Milan on Friday. Berlusconi had previously spent six weeks in the hospital receiving treatment for a lung infection associated with chronic Myelomonocytic leukaemia (CML).

History and achievements

Silvio Berlusconi, a prominent figure in Italian politics, served as the prime minister of Italy for three non-consecutive terms, from 1994 to 1995, 2001 to 2006, and 2008 to 2011. He was born on September 29, 1936, in Milan, Italy. Berlusconi’s political career was marked by controversy, charisma, and a successful business background.

Before entering politics, Berlusconi established himself as a successful entrepreneur. In the 1970s, he founded Fininvest, a media conglomerate that eventually grew to include television channels, publishing companies, and advertising agencies. His media empire, which included the popular television network Mediaset, gave him considerable influence and wealth, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Italy.

Berlusconi’s first foray into politics came in the early 1990s when he founded the center-right political party Forza Italia (Go Italy). In 1994, his party won the general elections, and he became the prime minister of Italy for the first time. However, his tenure was short-lived, as his government collapsed due to internal disputes and corruption scandals.

Despite the setbacks, Berlusconi remained a prominent figure in Italian politics. He successfully rebranded his political party as the Popolo della Libertà (People of Freedom) and won the 2001 general elections, once again becoming the prime minister. His tenure was characterized by controversial policies, political alliances, and clashes with the judiciary.

Berlusconi faced numerous legal troubles during his political career. He was involved in several high-profile corruption cases, tax fraud allegations, and charges of paying for sex with an underage prostitute. These legal battles contributed to his image as a polarizing figure and earned him the nickname “Il Cavaliere” (The Knight).

In addition to his political ambitions, Berlusconi had a colourful personal life. He was married twice and had five children. His flamboyant lifestyle, extravagant parties, and alleged connections to the world of show business often made headlines in the Italian media.

Berlusconi’s health issues became a matter of concern in his later years. In 2006, he was diagnosed with a heart condition and underwent open-heart surgery. In recent times, his health deteriorated further as he battled chronic Myelomonocytic leukaemia (CML) and a subsequent lung infection, which required hospitalization.

Today, 12 june 2023, Silvio Berlusconi passed away at the age of 86. His death marked the end of an era in Italian politics, leaving behind a complex legacy intertwined with controversies, business achievements, and a significant impact on the country’s political landscape.