May 2nd, 2006 · Premier Silvio Berlusconi, the longest-serving leader in postwar Italy, resigns to make way for a center-left government led by Romano Prodi. Berlusconi, leader of the conservatives elected in 2001, had steadfastly refused to concede defeat since the nation's April 9-10 elections.
Apr 21st, 2006 · Italy's new Prime Minister, Romano Prodi, won by a narrow margin in recent elections. Difficult days lie ahead for Prodi as he attempts to rule in the wake of outgoing Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, and revive Italy's sagging economy.
Apr 12th, 2006 · Romano Prodi, leader of Italy's center-left coalition, that has claimed victory over Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, says he will start choosing members of his cabinet. Berlusconi, who has refused to concede defeat, has called for checks on some 43,000 disputed ballots.
Apr 12th, 2006 · Official election results give a center-left coalition led by Romano Prodi a thin majority in both houses of Italy's parliament. Prodi rejects calls by current Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi to form a broad-based government of national unity. Also in Italy, authorities nab a mafia boss sought for more than 40 years.
Apr 11th, 2006 · Despite his rival's claim of victory in Italy's general election, Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi refuses to concede the race, instead suggesting that a broad coalition be formed. With votes still being counted, a court may have to determine the winner between Berlusconi and center-left challenger Romano Prodi.
Apr 9th, 2006 · Italians vote Sunday and Monday in what is seen as a referendum on the conservative government of their prime minister, the media tycoon-turned-politican Silvio Berlusconi. Berlusconi's rival, Romano Prodi, of the center-left coalition, is leading in the polls.