On 27 March 2023, Berlusconi was admitted to San Raffaele Hospital for three days after suffering pains. In April 2023, Berlusconi was hospitalised at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan,[4] and was treated in
intensive care, after suffering breathing problems,[5][6] due to severe pneumonia caused by a form of leukaemia.[7] On 6 April, it was reported that Berlusconi started
chemotherapy.[8]
After being discharged from the hospital on 19 May, Berlusconi was hospitalised again on 9 June 2023. His health conditions dramatically worsened in the night between 11 and 12 June, and he died at 9:30 (
CET) on 12 June 2023. He was 86.[9][10]
Lying in state
A few hours after his death, Berlusconi's body was brought to Villa San Martino, Berlusconi's mansion in
Arcore, where he
lay in state in the villa's private chapel. Due to security reasons, only relatives and close friends could access the chapelle ardente.[11][12]
The following day, a
private Mass in memory of the deceased was celebrated in the chapel by Father Giandomenico Colombo, priest in charge of Arcore and private chaplain of the mansion, at the presence of relatives and close friends.[13][14]
Mario Delpini, the archbishop of Milan, officiated Berlusconi's
Ambrosian Rite state funeral on 14 June 2023 in the
Milan Cathedral.[16] Monsignor Delpini delivered an homily on the meaning of life, mentioning some elements of Berlusconi's life (business, public life, and politics). He concluded: "That's what we can say about Silvio Berlusconi: he was a man and now
he will meet God."[17]
The funeral was attended by 2,300 people in the Cathedral and 15,000 people in the square outside of it.[22] Supporters of Berlusconi chanted C'è solo un presidente! ("There is only one president!") and applauded while the coffin was entering and then leaving the Cathedral.[23]Anti-communist chants were also reported.[24][25]
After the religious ceremony, Berlusconi's body was brought back to Villa San Martino; he was then transferred to the Tempio Crematorio Valenziano Panta Rei in
Valenza, where he was
cremated. His ashes were then interred in the Chapel of
Saint Martin in the mansion grounds, close to the resting place of his parents Luigi and Rosa, and his sister Maria Antonietta.[46]
Reactions
National
Italy
President
Sergio Mattarella said: "Berlusconi was a great political leader who marked the history of our republic, influencing its paradigms, uses and languages. ... He was a person with great humanity and a successful entrepreneur, an innovator in his field. He has conquered positions of absolute prominence in the television industry and in the media sector, well before his direct involvement in institutions."[47]
Prime Minister
Giorgia Meloni said: "Silvio Berlusconi was above all a fighter. He was a man who had never been afraid of defending his ideas and it was exactly that courage and that determination which made him one of the most influential men in the history of Italy. ... With him, Italy learned that it should never have limits imposed on it, it learned that it should never give up. With him we have fought, won and lost, many battles and for him too we will bring home the goals we set ourselves together."[48]
President of the Senate
Ignazio La Russa said: "There was an Italy before Silvio Berlusconi and an Italy after he entered the field of politics, just as I believe there was an Italy until yesterday and another one from tomorrow, without Berlusconi. If we look at the history of the last few decades, he has changed politics, urban planning, television, football, diplomacy. Wherever he applied, he brought about change."[49]
Former Prime Minister
Giuseppe Conte said: "Silvio Berlusconi was an entrepreneur and a politician who contributed to write significant pages of our history in every field in which he ventured. He has ignited and polarised the public debate perhaps like no other, and even those who have faced him as a political opponent must recognise that he has never lacked courage, passion, tenacity."[50]
Former Prime Minister
Mario Draghi said: "As an entrepreneur Berlusconi revolutionised the world of communication and sport, with an extraordinary spirit of initiative and innovation. As a leader he transformed politics and was loved by millions of Italians for his humanity and his charisma."[51]
Former Prime Minister
Romano Prodi, historically a rival of Berlusconi in politics, said: "I share my deep condolences for the passing of Silvio Berlusconi. In our long political confrontation we have represented different and opposing worlds, but our rivalry has never transcended into feelings of enmity on a personal level, maintaining the confrontation in an environment of mutual respect."[52]
Former Prime Minister
Matteo Renzi said: "Silvio Berlusconi made history in this country. Many loved him, many hated him: everyone today must recognise that his impact on political but also economic, sporting and television life was unprecedented. Today Italy mourns alongside his family, his loved ones, his companies, his party. To all those who loved him, my most affectionate and most sincere embrace."[53]
International
Armenia
Prime Minister
Nikol Pashinyan sent his condolences to Prime Minister Meloni, "the friendly people of Italy, and the family and friends of Berlusconi".[54]
Austria
Chancellor
Karl Nehammer expressed his condolences to his family and the Italian people.[55]
Azerbaijan
President
Ilham Aliyev described Berlusconi as a "renowned statesman and politician" who "had a great contribution to development and expansion of friendly and cooperative relations", and expressed his condolences to his family, President Mattarella, and all the people of Italy.[56]
President
Alexander Lukashenko described Berlusconi as a "brilliant and talented person, a politician who knew how to assess situations independently, make effective decisions and take responsibility for them" and extended his condolences to his family and friends.[58]
Bulgaria
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Mariya Gabriel said: "Sincere condolences on the passing of Silvio Berlusconi who left а memorable mark in the Italian and European political life. Deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones."[59][non-primary source needed]
European Union
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the
European Commission, described Berlusconi as "a person who moulded his beloved country", and expressed her condolences to his family and Italy.[60]
Roberta Metsola, president of the
European Parliament, eulogised Berlusconi as "a fighter who led the centre-right and who was a protagonist of politics in Italy and Europe for generations", adding that he "will not be forgotten".[61]
Christine Lagarde, president of the
European Central Bank, wrote on Twitter that "former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been an important figure in Italian politics for several decades. My condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues."[63]
Manfred Weber, leader of the
European People's Party, declared himself to be "in pain for the death of Silvio Berlusconi", adding that "my thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time. We will not forget the energy and dedication with which he worked for his beloved Italy, for his political family and for his European ideals. May he rest in peace."[63]
France
President
Emmanuel Macron mourned the loss of "a major figure of contemporary Italy", and expressed his condolences to the family and friends.[64]
Marine Le Pen, former leader of the
National Rally, described Berlusconi as an "atypical figure ... who undeniably marked Italy's political life", and expressed her condolences to Italy.[64]
Éric Ciotti, leader of
The Republicans, described Berlusconi as "a monument to politics in Italy and a great statesman" and "a fervent defensor of friendship between our two nations".[64]
Germany
A spokesperson for Chancellor
Olaf Scholz expressed closeness to the Italian people and government, without adding further comments.[63]
Holy See
Pope Francis said: "Silvio Berlusconi was a protagonist of Italian political life, who held public responsibilities with an energetic temper. May God grant him eternal peace and heartfelt consolation for those who mourn his departure."[65]
Prime Minister
Viktor Orbán said: "Gone is the great fighter."[67]
Israel
Prime Minister
Benjamin Netanyahu said: "My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and to the people of Italy. Silvio was a great friend of Israel and stood by us at all times. Rest in peace my friend."[68]
Kazakhstan
President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described him as "an outstanding politician of a global scale, a charming and truly charismatic leader", and sent his condolences to Prime Minister Meloni.[69]
Liberia
President
George Weah expressed "profound sadness" and offered his condolences.[70]
Montenegro
Prime Minister
Dritan Abazović expressed "sincere sympathy with the friendly Italian people" in a telegram to Meloni.[71]
Former president
Milo Đukanović send his condolences to Berlusconi's family.[72]
Netherlands
Prime Minister
Mark Rutte said: "With the death of Silvio Berlusconi, Italy has lost a strong personality. He was the first Italian prime minister I worked with, and I will remember him as a striking and passionate politician. I have conveyed my condolences to Giorgia Meloni on behalf of the Dutch government. Our thoughts are with his family and other loved ones."[73][non-primary source needed]
President
Vladimir Putin said: "The most important events in Italy's recent history are linked to the name of this extraordinary man. As a true patriot, Silvio Berlusconi has always put the interests of his country first. ... For me, Silvio was a dear person, a true friend. I have always sincerely admired his wisdom, his ability to make balanced and far-sighted decisions even in the most difficult situations." He also stated that Berlusconi would be remembered as a "consistent and principled supporter of strengthening friendly relations between our countries."[75][76][77]
Former president
Dmitry Medvedev said: "We cry with you, Italy. Silvio was your patriot. We will remember him."[78]
Saudi Arabia
King
Salman of Saudi Arabia expressed his condolence to President Mattarella, Berlusconi's family, and the people of Italy, wishing them to be preserved from all misfortune and harm.[79]
Crown Prince
Mohammed bin Salman expressed his condolence to President Mattarella and Berlusconi's family, wishing them continued health and wellbeing.[80]
Serbia
President
Aleksandar Vučić described Berlusconi as "the strongest leader in the country's recent history" who "will be remembered for his bold policies that earned him the citizens' trust for many years, but also for his unique charisma", and expressed his condolence to Prime Minister Meloni and the people of Italy.[81]
Spain
Labor Minister
Yolanda Díaz stated: "Of course, my condolences to his family and friends, respectfully, but please understand that the disparity of the political project that Mr. Berlusconi represented for so long does not suffer my compassion and, moreover, shows my disagreement with it."[82]
Turkey
President
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said: "I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend Silvio Berlusconi. I convey my condolences to all Italian people."[83]
Turkmenistan
Former President and Chairman of the People's Council
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow expressed his condolence to President Mattarella.[84]
United Kingdom
A spokesperson for Prime Minister
Rishi Sunak stated: "Silvio Berlusconi made a huge impact on Italian politics over several decades, and our thoughts are with the Italian people and his family."[85]
Former Prime Minister
Tony Blair said: "Silvio Berlusconi was a larger than life figure with whom I worked closely for several years as Prime Minister. I know he was controversial for many but for me he was a leader whom I found capable, shrewd and, most important, true to his word."[85]
United States
Former president
George W. Bush said: "Silvio Berlusconi was a vibrant leader with a personality to match.
Laura and I were fortunate to spend a good deal of time with him during my presidency. There was never a dull moment with Silvio. He strengthened the friendship between Italy and the United States, and we are grateful for his commitment to our important alliance."[86]
Secretary of State
Antony Blinken stated: "I simply want to extend my condolences to his family, but also to the Italian people for their loss. He was obviously a tremendously significant figure in the life of Italy."[87]
In sport
Gianni Infantino, the president of
FIFA, expressed his sorrow for the death of the Italian leader. He said: "I want to remember him like this, as the person who — in our much-loved sport — he dreamed and then turned those thoughts into reality. A big hug and my deepest condolences to all those who loved him. And thank you for making us love this amazing game."[88][89] Several football clubs, including Berlusconi's former club
AC Milan,[82] along with his then current club
AC Monza,
FC Barcelona, and
Real Madrid, expressed their condolences through separate statements on their social media accounts.[90] Several world football figures also dedicated a comment;
Paolo Maldini said: "A genius, visionary and dreamer leaves us, but above all a friend who changed the history of our Italy. Thank you for everything President, you made all Milan fans live a dream that lasted more than 30 years, no one will be like you."[90]Franco Baresi stated: "I feel more alone. For me he was like a father, a unique and endearing president for everyone. He made my dreams come true."[90]
Protests
The decision to declare a day of national mourning and the order for flags to be flown half-mast caused protests and controversy. Several members of the
centre-left opposition protested against it, calling it inappropriate considering the scandals Berlusconi went through. A woman showed up in the square in front of the Milan Cathedral wearing a T-shirt stating Io non sono in lutto ("I am not mourning"); she was heavily contested by Berlusconi's supporters and eventually removed by the Polizia di Stato. A young man also protested in front of the Chamber of Deputies showing a sign stating Non il mio lutto ("Not my mourning").[91]
Tomaso Montanari, rector of the
Università per Stranieri di Siena and well-known left-wing activist, refused to fly the university's flags half-mast, calling it inappropriate and citing
academic freedom; he said that by doing so for Berlusconi, his university would "lose all educational and moral credibility."[25] He was harshly criticised by centre-right politicians and by
Matteo Renzi (leader of
Italia Viva and editor of Il Riformista), who called for his resignation on the grounds that the rector could be indicted for not observing public orders. A petition was launched in his support on
Change.org, collecting more than 20,000 signatures.[92][93]Marco Travaglio, editor of Il Fatto Quotidiano and a well-known Berlusconi critic, was harshly critical towards what he perceived as a
beatification of the deceased leader, citing his multiple scandals.[94]
Protests also came from the
Communist Refoundation Party, the
Greens and Left Alliance, and some members of the
Democratic Party (PD).[95]Rosy Bindi, a former member of the PD who was often the target of Berlusconi's sexist jibes, said that the national day of mourning was "disrespectful toward the majority" who opposed him.[25] Some opposition leaders, such as
Giuseppe Conte,
Nicola Fratoianni, and
Angelo Bonelli, refused to attend the state funeral.[25][96] While expressing his condolences to Berlusconi's family and those close to him,[97] Conte said that it would have been hypocritical otherwise, citing respect for the values and principles of the
Five Star Movement, which he said has a "completely distant history" from that of Berlusconi;[98] he criticised what he called "a public-private media system which has begun blatantly hagiographic reconstructions".[99]
On 27 March 2023, Berlusconi was admitted to San Raffaele Hospital for three days after suffering pains. In April 2023, Berlusconi was hospitalised at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan,[4] and was treated in
intensive care, after suffering breathing problems,[5][6] due to severe pneumonia caused by a form of leukaemia.[7] On 6 April, it was reported that Berlusconi started
chemotherapy.[8]
After being discharged from the hospital on 19 May, Berlusconi was hospitalised again on 9 June 2023. His health conditions dramatically worsened in the night between 11 and 12 June, and he died at 9:30 (
CET) on 12 June 2023. He was 86.[9][10]
Lying in state
A few hours after his death, Berlusconi's body was brought to Villa San Martino, Berlusconi's mansion in
Arcore, where he
lay in state in the villa's private chapel. Due to security reasons, only relatives and close friends could access the chapelle ardente.[11][12]
The following day, a
private Mass in memory of the deceased was celebrated in the chapel by Father Giandomenico Colombo, priest in charge of Arcore and private chaplain of the mansion, at the presence of relatives and close friends.[13][14]
Mario Delpini, the archbishop of Milan, officiated Berlusconi's
Ambrosian Rite state funeral on 14 June 2023 in the
Milan Cathedral.[16] Monsignor Delpini delivered an homily on the meaning of life, mentioning some elements of Berlusconi's life (business, public life, and politics). He concluded: "That's what we can say about Silvio Berlusconi: he was a man and now
he will meet God."[17]
The funeral was attended by 2,300 people in the Cathedral and 15,000 people in the square outside of it.[22] Supporters of Berlusconi chanted C'è solo un presidente! ("There is only one president!") and applauded while the coffin was entering and then leaving the Cathedral.[23]Anti-communist chants were also reported.[24][25]
After the religious ceremony, Berlusconi's body was brought back to Villa San Martino; he was then transferred to the Tempio Crematorio Valenziano Panta Rei in
Valenza, where he was
cremated. His ashes were then interred in the Chapel of
Saint Martin in the mansion grounds, close to the resting place of his parents Luigi and Rosa, and his sister Maria Antonietta.[46]
Reactions
National
Italy
President
Sergio Mattarella said: "Berlusconi was a great political leader who marked the history of our republic, influencing its paradigms, uses and languages. ... He was a person with great humanity and a successful entrepreneur, an innovator in his field. He has conquered positions of absolute prominence in the television industry and in the media sector, well before his direct involvement in institutions."[47]
Prime Minister
Giorgia Meloni said: "Silvio Berlusconi was above all a fighter. He was a man who had never been afraid of defending his ideas and it was exactly that courage and that determination which made him one of the most influential men in the history of Italy. ... With him, Italy learned that it should never have limits imposed on it, it learned that it should never give up. With him we have fought, won and lost, many battles and for him too we will bring home the goals we set ourselves together."[48]
President of the Senate
Ignazio La Russa said: "There was an Italy before Silvio Berlusconi and an Italy after he entered the field of politics, just as I believe there was an Italy until yesterday and another one from tomorrow, without Berlusconi. If we look at the history of the last few decades, he has changed politics, urban planning, television, football, diplomacy. Wherever he applied, he brought about change."[49]
Former Prime Minister
Giuseppe Conte said: "Silvio Berlusconi was an entrepreneur and a politician who contributed to write significant pages of our history in every field in which he ventured. He has ignited and polarised the public debate perhaps like no other, and even those who have faced him as a political opponent must recognise that he has never lacked courage, passion, tenacity."[50]
Former Prime Minister
Mario Draghi said: "As an entrepreneur Berlusconi revolutionised the world of communication and sport, with an extraordinary spirit of initiative and innovation. As a leader he transformed politics and was loved by millions of Italians for his humanity and his charisma."[51]
Former Prime Minister
Romano Prodi, historically a rival of Berlusconi in politics, said: "I share my deep condolences for the passing of Silvio Berlusconi. In our long political confrontation we have represented different and opposing worlds, but our rivalry has never transcended into feelings of enmity on a personal level, maintaining the confrontation in an environment of mutual respect."[52]
Former Prime Minister
Matteo Renzi said: "Silvio Berlusconi made history in this country. Many loved him, many hated him: everyone today must recognise that his impact on political but also economic, sporting and television life was unprecedented. Today Italy mourns alongside his family, his loved ones, his companies, his party. To all those who loved him, my most affectionate and most sincere embrace."[53]
International
Armenia
Prime Minister
Nikol Pashinyan sent his condolences to Prime Minister Meloni, "the friendly people of Italy, and the family and friends of Berlusconi".[54]
Austria
Chancellor
Karl Nehammer expressed his condolences to his family and the Italian people.[55]
Azerbaijan
President
Ilham Aliyev described Berlusconi as a "renowned statesman and politician" who "had a great contribution to development and expansion of friendly and cooperative relations", and expressed his condolences to his family, President Mattarella, and all the people of Italy.[56]
President
Alexander Lukashenko described Berlusconi as a "brilliant and talented person, a politician who knew how to assess situations independently, make effective decisions and take responsibility for them" and extended his condolences to his family and friends.[58]
Bulgaria
Minister of Foreign Affairs
Mariya Gabriel said: "Sincere condolences on the passing of Silvio Berlusconi who left а memorable mark in the Italian and European political life. Deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones."[59][non-primary source needed]
European Union
Ursula von der Leyen, president of the
European Commission, described Berlusconi as "a person who moulded his beloved country", and expressed her condolences to his family and Italy.[60]
Roberta Metsola, president of the
European Parliament, eulogised Berlusconi as "a fighter who led the centre-right and who was a protagonist of politics in Italy and Europe for generations", adding that he "will not be forgotten".[61]
Christine Lagarde, president of the
European Central Bank, wrote on Twitter that "former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has been an important figure in Italian politics for several decades. My condolences go out to his family, friends and colleagues."[63]
Manfred Weber, leader of the
European People's Party, declared himself to be "in pain for the death of Silvio Berlusconi", adding that "my thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time. We will not forget the energy and dedication with which he worked for his beloved Italy, for his political family and for his European ideals. May he rest in peace."[63]
France
President
Emmanuel Macron mourned the loss of "a major figure of contemporary Italy", and expressed his condolences to the family and friends.[64]
Marine Le Pen, former leader of the
National Rally, described Berlusconi as an "atypical figure ... who undeniably marked Italy's political life", and expressed her condolences to Italy.[64]
Éric Ciotti, leader of
The Republicans, described Berlusconi as "a monument to politics in Italy and a great statesman" and "a fervent defensor of friendship between our two nations".[64]
Germany
A spokesperson for Chancellor
Olaf Scholz expressed closeness to the Italian people and government, without adding further comments.[63]
Holy See
Pope Francis said: "Silvio Berlusconi was a protagonist of Italian political life, who held public responsibilities with an energetic temper. May God grant him eternal peace and heartfelt consolation for those who mourn his departure."[65]
Prime Minister
Viktor Orbán said: "Gone is the great fighter."[67]
Israel
Prime Minister
Benjamin Netanyahu said: "My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and to the people of Italy. Silvio was a great friend of Israel and stood by us at all times. Rest in peace my friend."[68]
Kazakhstan
President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described him as "an outstanding politician of a global scale, a charming and truly charismatic leader", and sent his condolences to Prime Minister Meloni.[69]
Liberia
President
George Weah expressed "profound sadness" and offered his condolences.[70]
Montenegro
Prime Minister
Dritan Abazović expressed "sincere sympathy with the friendly Italian people" in a telegram to Meloni.[71]
Former president
Milo Đukanović send his condolences to Berlusconi's family.[72]
Netherlands
Prime Minister
Mark Rutte said: "With the death of Silvio Berlusconi, Italy has lost a strong personality. He was the first Italian prime minister I worked with, and I will remember him as a striking and passionate politician. I have conveyed my condolences to Giorgia Meloni on behalf of the Dutch government. Our thoughts are with his family and other loved ones."[73][non-primary source needed]
President
Vladimir Putin said: "The most important events in Italy's recent history are linked to the name of this extraordinary man. As a true patriot, Silvio Berlusconi has always put the interests of his country first. ... For me, Silvio was a dear person, a true friend. I have always sincerely admired his wisdom, his ability to make balanced and far-sighted decisions even in the most difficult situations." He also stated that Berlusconi would be remembered as a "consistent and principled supporter of strengthening friendly relations between our countries."[75][76][77]
Former president
Dmitry Medvedev said: "We cry with you, Italy. Silvio was your patriot. We will remember him."[78]
Saudi Arabia
King
Salman of Saudi Arabia expressed his condolence to President Mattarella, Berlusconi's family, and the people of Italy, wishing them to be preserved from all misfortune and harm.[79]
Crown Prince
Mohammed bin Salman expressed his condolence to President Mattarella and Berlusconi's family, wishing them continued health and wellbeing.[80]
Serbia
President
Aleksandar Vučić described Berlusconi as "the strongest leader in the country's recent history" who "will be remembered for his bold policies that earned him the citizens' trust for many years, but also for his unique charisma", and expressed his condolence to Prime Minister Meloni and the people of Italy.[81]
Spain
Labor Minister
Yolanda Díaz stated: "Of course, my condolences to his family and friends, respectfully, but please understand that the disparity of the political project that Mr. Berlusconi represented for so long does not suffer my compassion and, moreover, shows my disagreement with it."[82]
Turkey
President
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said: "I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend Silvio Berlusconi. I convey my condolences to all Italian people."[83]
Turkmenistan
Former President and Chairman of the People's Council
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow expressed his condolence to President Mattarella.[84]
United Kingdom
A spokesperson for Prime Minister
Rishi Sunak stated: "Silvio Berlusconi made a huge impact on Italian politics over several decades, and our thoughts are with the Italian people and his family."[85]
Former Prime Minister
Tony Blair said: "Silvio Berlusconi was a larger than life figure with whom I worked closely for several years as Prime Minister. I know he was controversial for many but for me he was a leader whom I found capable, shrewd and, most important, true to his word."[85]
United States
Former president
George W. Bush said: "Silvio Berlusconi was a vibrant leader with a personality to match.
Laura and I were fortunate to spend a good deal of time with him during my presidency. There was never a dull moment with Silvio. He strengthened the friendship between Italy and the United States, and we are grateful for his commitment to our important alliance."[86]
Secretary of State
Antony Blinken stated: "I simply want to extend my condolences to his family, but also to the Italian people for their loss. He was obviously a tremendously significant figure in the life of Italy."[87]
In sport
Gianni Infantino, the president of
FIFA, expressed his sorrow for the death of the Italian leader. He said: "I want to remember him like this, as the person who — in our much-loved sport — he dreamed and then turned those thoughts into reality. A big hug and my deepest condolences to all those who loved him. And thank you for making us love this amazing game."[88][89] Several football clubs, including Berlusconi's former club
AC Milan,[82] along with his then current club
AC Monza,
FC Barcelona, and
Real Madrid, expressed their condolences through separate statements on their social media accounts.[90] Several world football figures also dedicated a comment;
Paolo Maldini said: "A genius, visionary and dreamer leaves us, but above all a friend who changed the history of our Italy. Thank you for everything President, you made all Milan fans live a dream that lasted more than 30 years, no one will be like you."[90]Franco Baresi stated: "I feel more alone. For me he was like a father, a unique and endearing president for everyone. He made my dreams come true."[90]
Protests
The decision to declare a day of national mourning and the order for flags to be flown half-mast caused protests and controversy. Several members of the
centre-left opposition protested against it, calling it inappropriate considering the scandals Berlusconi went through. A woman showed up in the square in front of the Milan Cathedral wearing a T-shirt stating Io non sono in lutto ("I am not mourning"); she was heavily contested by Berlusconi's supporters and eventually removed by the Polizia di Stato. A young man also protested in front of the Chamber of Deputies showing a sign stating Non il mio lutto ("Not my mourning").[91]
Tomaso Montanari, rector of the
Università per Stranieri di Siena and well-known left-wing activist, refused to fly the university's flags half-mast, calling it inappropriate and citing
academic freedom; he said that by doing so for Berlusconi, his university would "lose all educational and moral credibility."[25] He was harshly criticised by centre-right politicians and by
Matteo Renzi (leader of
Italia Viva and editor of Il Riformista), who called for his resignation on the grounds that the rector could be indicted for not observing public orders. A petition was launched in his support on
Change.org, collecting more than 20,000 signatures.[92][93]Marco Travaglio, editor of Il Fatto Quotidiano and a well-known Berlusconi critic, was harshly critical towards what he perceived as a
beatification of the deceased leader, citing his multiple scandals.[94]
Protests also came from the
Communist Refoundation Party, the
Greens and Left Alliance, and some members of the
Democratic Party (PD).[95]Rosy Bindi, a former member of the PD who was often the target of Berlusconi's sexist jibes, said that the national day of mourning was "disrespectful toward the majority" who opposed him.[25] Some opposition leaders, such as
Giuseppe Conte,
Nicola Fratoianni, and
Angelo Bonelli, refused to attend the state funeral.[25][96] While expressing his condolences to Berlusconi's family and those close to him,[97] Conte said that it would have been hypocritical otherwise, citing respect for the values and principles of the
Five Star Movement, which he said has a "completely distant history" from that of Berlusconi;[98] he criticised what he called "a public-private media system which has begun blatantly hagiographic reconstructions".[99]