Silvio Berlusconi, the Controversial Former Italian Prime Minister, Passes Away at 84

Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi Dies at 86

On 12th June 2023, Silvio Berlusconi, Italy’s former prime minister, passed away at the age of 86. Berlusconi, a flamboyant media tycoon, led three governments and founded Forza Italia, a political party that is a junior partner in Italy’s ruling coalition. He was diagnosed with leukaemia some time ago, spent six weeks this spring at the San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, and was readmitted after a lung infection linked to a chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia.

Controversial Career of Berlusconi

Berlusconi’s career was marred by countless allegations of corruption, tax fraud conviction, and sex scandals, which led him to resign from office in 2011. Despite that, he made a comeback in 2017, after which his ban on running for office was lifted in time for the general elections of 2018. His party, Forza Italia, fell short of the required votes but was back to power in 2022 in a coalition led by Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy. Berlusconi won a seat in the European parliament and was also elected as a senator.

The Legacy of Silvio Berlusconi

Berlusconi was often considered the “kingmaker” in Italian politics, and his death leaves a significant void. Matteo Salvini, the deputy prime minister, described him as “a great friend and a great Italian man”. Berlusconi’s career had remarkable impacts on Italian politics, economy, sports, and television life. Even his political rival, the former European Commission president Romano Prodi, paid tribute and expressed mutual respect.

Philosophical Reflection on the Legacy of Individuals

The death of a prominent politician or public figure prompts us to reflect on life, legacy, and the impact of individuals on society. Berlusconi’s death reminds us of the complexities and contrasts that exist in human beings. Individuals such as Berlusconi may have positive and negative aspects, and their legacy may vary from person to person. Although we can’t deny Berlusconi’s impact on the Italian political landscape and his contributions to Italian life, his controversies have left lingering scars and negative impressions.

Editorial and Advice

As we pay tribute to Berlusconi’s life, we should also reflect on the values and principles that are essential in public service. Transparency, integrity, and accountability are among the critical virtues that promote public trust, good governance, and the credibility of public servants. While successful leadership encompasses various skills and competencies, the absence of morals and ethical principles is detrimental to individuals’ integrity and their legacy. When we choose our leaders or public officials, we must evaluate their ethics, values, and character as well as their policies and performance.