Several of his close aides have been convicted for their involvement in the scheme.

BBC: Brazil prosecutors investigate ex-President Lula

Two of his close aides have been arrested in connection with the murder.

BBC: Raja Bhaiyya: India minister quits over murder charge

He was convicted last December with 24 other associates and close aides to Lula in a landmark trial heard by Brazil's Supreme Court.

BBC: Brazil prosecutors investigate ex-President Lula

One of Chancellor Merkel's close aides in the German parliament told the BBC's Stephen Evans he does not see why "Britain should stay isolated".

BBC: EU veto: Cameron says he negotiated in 'good faith'

Early in the morning the new Pope slipped out of Vatican City in a motorcade of unmarked vehicles accompanied only by a handful of close aides to pray in a Roman Basilica.

BBC: Pope Francis quick to stamp his style on papacy

Bush acknowledged receiving the telephone call, which aides close by said lasted some two minutes.

CNN: Gore concedes 2000 presidential race

Still, aides close to the Obama transition team say the president-elect is on track to nominate his former rival to the secretary of state post next week.

CNN: Obama's vetting could chase away candidates

Sources told CNN the notion of a Gephardt candidacy has been actively promoted by three Gore aides with close ties to the House minority leader -- campaign manager Donna Brazile, campaign chairman Bill Daley, and media adviser Robert Shrum.

CNN: Sources: Gore campaign and Gephardt in 'serious' running mate talks

Lawmakers and aides said all the major elements were complete, or close to.

NPR: AP Source: Senate Plan To Stiffen Border Security