Corruption has plagued nations throughout history, with some leaders amassing vast fortunes at the expense of their citizens. Transparency International’s Global Corruption Report 2004 highlighted several such leaders, ranking them based on the estimated amounts they embezzled. Notably, a Nigerian leader features prominently on this list.…..CONTINUE READING
1. Mohamed Suharto (Indonesia)
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Amount Stolen: $15–35 billion
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Tenure: 1967–1998
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Overview: Suharto’s regime was marked by widespread corruption, with allegations of embezzlement involving state funds and monopolistic practices benefiting his family and close associates.
2. Ferdinand Marcos (Philippines)
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Amount Stolen: $5–10 billion
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Tenure: 1965–1986
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Overview: Marcos and his wife, Imelda, were notorious for their extravagant lifestyle, funded by the alleged siphoning of billions from the Philippine treasury.CONTINUE READING
3. Mobutu Sese Seko (Zaire, now Democratic Republic of Congo)
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Amount Stolen: $5 billion
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Tenure: 1965–1997
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Overview: Mobutu’s kleptocratic rule saw the exploitation of Zaire’s vast mineral wealth, with significant funds diverted to his personal accounts.
4. Sani Abacha (Nigeria)
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Amount Stolen: $2–5 billion
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Tenure: 1993–1998
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Overview: General Abacha’s military regime was characterized by severe human rights abuses and massive corruption. He and his associates reportedly embezzled billions, much of which was stashed in foreign bank accounts.
5. Slobodan Milošević (Yugoslavia)
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Amount Stolen: $1 billion
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Tenure: 1989–2000
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Overview: Milošević’s tenure was marred by conflict and economic turmoil, during which he allegedly diverted substantial state funds for personal gain.CONTINUE READING
6. Jean-Claude Duvalier (Haiti)
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Amount Stolen: $300–800 million
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Tenure: 1971–1986
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Overview: Known as “Baby Doc,” Duvalier continued his father’s oppressive regime, accumulating wealth through corruption and siphoning off international aid.
7. Alberto Fujimori (Peru)
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Amount Stolen: $600 million
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Tenure: 1990–2000
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Overview: Fujimori’s government was involved in numerous corruption scandals, including embezzlement and bribery, leading to his eventual conviction.
These leaders exemplify how absolute power can lead to absolute corruption, leaving lasting scars on their nations’ economies and societies.CONTINUE READING
