Former Italian prime minister Silvio Berlusconi has denounced the Supreme Court's decision to uphold his tax fraud conviction and jail sentence as 'baseless', which has deprived him of his freedom and political rights.
The court had also ordered a further judicial review on whether he should be banned from holding public office.
According to the BBC, in an emotional video statement, Berlusconi denounced the decision as 'based on nothing'.
The sentence cannot be appealed against further but Berlusconi, 76, is unlikely to go to jail because of his age.
Berlusconi is likely to serve house arrest or carry out community service. His lawyers also described Thursday's ruling as 'unjust'.
According to the report, he described the more than 50 court cases he has faced as genuine judicial harassment that is unmatched in the civilised world.
You’ve reached your limit of 10 free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app