Former Italian Prime Minister Berlusconi Dies

Silvio Berlusconi, the former Italian Prime Minister and media entrepreneur, has died at the age of 86 in Milan’s San Raffaele hospital. Berlusconi led four governments in Italy as Prime Minister, having served previously as a businessman. He was also the leader of the Forza Italia political party, and controversially controlled the Mediaset media empire, leading to accusations of conflicts of interest.

“Father of Populists”

For former Prime Minister Mario Monti, Berlusconi was the “Father of Populists,” and he referred to himself as the “Jesus Christ of Politics.” Despite his divisive reputation, Berlusconi was admired by many. He faced numerous court cases, particularly on accusations of tax evasion and involvement with underage prostitutes in the “Bunga-Bunga” parties. He was also excluded from parliament due to a tax-evasion-related penalty. He had recently been serving as a senator.

Health Issues and Political Decline

Berlusconi’s political career ended amid the financial crisis, leaving him searching for a way to regain the political significance and a presidential post, which he failed to achieve. In his last years, he faced several health difficulties, including a heart operation, a coronavirus infection, pneumonia, and a urinary tract infection. Berlusconi also suffered from prostate cancer and had a pacemaker.

Berlusconi’s Legacy

Forza Italia, the political party Berlusconi founded, saw declining popularity over time, with criticism stemming from his reluctance to nurture political successors. He is survived by five children, and his partner at the time of his death was Forza Italia Deputy Marta Fascina, who was over 50 years younger than him.