Silvio Berlusconi Sex Conviction Overturned
Political repercussions
Berlusconi was in power three times as prime minister, dominating Italian politics. He still heads the right-wing Forza Italia party.
The acquittal may enable him to remain a strong influence in politics and may also help centre-left Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, observers say, as Forza Italia may be less inclined to block the government’s reforms.
“This ruling will bring people together. We will be calmer working in future and be more united between ourselves and with all of the centre-right,” said Lucio Malan, a Forza Italia senator, quoted by AFP news agency.
Prosecutors can still challenge the acquittal at the highest criminal court, the Court of Cassation, the Associated Press reports.
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