Will Silvio Berlusconi Wiggle Through?

Is this the week it all comes crashing down for Silvio Berlusconi? The Italian prime minister faces a confidence vote tomorrow that could see him turned out of office, which means he might finally have to face justice in a number of cases he has been able to avoid being tried on by virtue of the sluggish Italian legal system and the privileges of power. Still, despite all the attendant controversies surrounding the premier — “scandals engulfing his private life, reports of lavish parties and alleged encounters with prostitutes” — the betting is that he will, through a combination of bribery and fear, survive: “The appeal for peace talks came after indications that three or more opposition deputies were ready to switch their allegiances, giving Berlusconi a narrow victory on the day. News of the defections sparked accusations that the media tycoon was buying votes, claims that are to be investigated by the prosecution service in Rome.Calculations made after the latest developments suggested the government could now win by a majority of up to eight votes.” Say this for the guy: at least he keeps things interesting.

Photo by rucksackkruemel, from Flickr.