DHAKA: The Italian Senate will vote later on whether to expel former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi from parliament over his conviction for tax fraud.

Analysts say a large majority of senators is expected to back his expulsion, reports the BBC.

The former PM has called for supporters to protest in Rome against what he says is a political vendetta.

The vote comes a day after Berlusconi withdrew his Forza Italia party from the coalition government.

The ex-premier, who has dominated politics for nearly two decades in Italy, had asked senators to delay the vote on his expulsion because he claims to have new evidence proving he did not commit tax fraud.

However, the vote is expected to go ahead on Wednesday evening.

BDST: 1340 HRS, NOV 27, 2013