Silvio Berlusconi has reportedly threatened to withdraw its Forza Italia party from the government majority if incumbent Prime Minister Mario Draghi wins presidential elections which will be held at the end of this month, writes The Guardian.

The famous businessman and politician, who was the Prime Minister of Italy four times, arrived in Rome today, where he started his presidential election campaign.

In Italy, the head of state is elected by MPs, senators and councilors from 20 regions. Winning the election requires two-thirds of the votes in the first three rounds of voting, and an absolute majority in the fourth. They will elect Sergio Matarella's successor on January 24th, who will step down on February 3rd.

The official candidates for the elections have not been announced yet, although most often the party leaders agree on who their candidate will be.

Berlusconi, 85, is a favorite among right-wing parties. But incumbent Prime Minister Draghi, who enjoys greater public confidence, is considered the first in the race for the presidency.

According to Italian media, Berlusconi says that without Dragi as prime minister, "Forza Italy will leave the majority." According to opinion polls, 50% of people believe that Dragi is the ideal person for the position, and 39% support Berlusconi.

Antonio Tajani, vice-president of the Forza Italia party, says it is best for Draghi to remain prime minister and for Berlusconi to be president.

Dragi said in December that if he got the chance (to run for president of Italy), he would accept it.

Experts say Berlusconi has little chance of winning the election, despite his "aggressive threats".

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