The 10 Most Corrupt Leaders in the World

“Money and corruption are ruining the land, crooked politicians betray the working man, pocketing the profits and treating us like sheep, and we’re tired of hearing promises that we know they’ll never keep.”

–Ray Davies

Government officials are supposed to protect and lead the people towards a better life. The people trusted and elected them believing that they will prioritize their country and all its citizens’ welfare. But, what if the head of the state is only more concerned about power and fortune? What happens when public service becomes just another business and the leader only focuses on amassing great wealth to stabilize his own family’s future?

Then we will probably have corrupt leaders.

Corruption is like an infectious disease and it is pandemic. It may affect all types of people; it knows no race and religion, and history can prove that.

Here are 10 of the most corrupt leaders in world according to Transparency International, Global Corruption Report 2004:

#10. Joseph Ejercito Estrada, Philippines

Joseph Estrada became the Philippines’ head of state from 1998 to 2001. He allegedly embezzled $78-$80 million during his term. He is now the incumbent mayor of Manila, the country’s capital city.

#9. Arnoldo Alemán, Nicaragua

Between 1997 and 2002, former Nicaraguan president Arnoldo Alemán allegedly stole $100 million from his country.

#8. Pavlo Lazarenko, Ukraine

Pavlo Lazarenko was the Prime Minister of Ukraine from 1996 to 1997. In just one year, Lazarenko reportedly pocketed $114 million to $200 million.

#7. Alberto Fujimori, Peru

From 1990-2000, Fujimori’s 10-year-term allegedly allowed him to embezzle $600 million from the Peruvians.

#6. Jean-Claude Duvalier, Haiti

Jean-Claude Duvalier was the president of Haiti from 1971 to 1986. During his 15-year-term, he allegedly took $300 million to $800 million.

#5. Slobodan Milosevic, Serbia

The former Serbian leader reportedly embezzled $1 billion from 1989-2000.