Antonino Galofaro (in Milan) / Photo credit: Alberto PIZZOLI / AFP
The Italians all have a clear opinion on Silvio Berlusconi. The former head of government is either adored or hated. However, the announcement of his death at the age of 86 on Monday June 12 shook the Transalpine, starting with the Milanese, the inhabitants of his native land. Europe 1 went there.
The emotion is great in Italy since the announcement of the disappearance of the emblematic politician Silvio Berlusconi, especially in Milan, his native land. Nicknamed “Il Cavaliere” because he had received the title of Knight of the Order of Merit for Labor, the former President of the Council of Ministers has always aroused as much detestation as adulation.
“He never fired anyone”
In the heart of a popular district, a stone’s throw from the San Raffaele hospital where the businessman died on Monday morning, Antonio admits his admiration for the character at the microphone of Europe 1. “He is a very great character, unique if I dare say, in politics as in business. He has never dismissed anyone in his companies, “says this Milanese. Silvio Berlusconi is often admired by his peers for his charisma, his presence and his intelligence which allowed him to “build an empire from nothing”. Antonio also talks about his incredible victories with AC Milan as he was its president for 30 years. The club notably won five Champions League during his reign.
However, the former statesman does not only have admirers. Some Transalpines did not support the way he managed the country. “He only took care of his business, not of the interests of the Italians”, exclaims Pietro. “The damage he was able to do, he has already done it. We are still paying for the decline of values, there is no longer any restraint”, assures Simona. Those who wish will be able to pay him a last tribute on Wednesday, during the national funeral which will be celebrated in the cathedral of Milan, his birthplace.