Bono Accuses Berlusconi Of 'Exploiting' Him

Bono has criticised controversial Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi for “exploiting” his image in the run up to the Italian elections.

The U2 frontman was dismayed to learn his picture was used in a glossy magazine listing the Berlusconi government’s achievements, as they seek reelection next week.

The brochure for the Forza Italia (Go Italy!) party, which has been distributed to Italian households, claims Bono is “grateful to the prime minister for the actions promoted by the Italian government toward poor countries,” involving the singer’s high profile campaign against world poverty.

However, Bono has hit back at the claims, writing an open letter to the media mogul reading, "Mr. Berlusconi, as flattered as I can be of appearing in your brochure, I also feel a bit exploited."

He also called on Italy to honour the G8 group of world leaders promise to give money to the world’s poorest people, writing, "If your commitment is real and your signature is trustworthy, then the world wants to know how Italy intends to reach this target.”