The fact that it was led by Akbar Tandjung, once convicted of corruption though cleared on appeal, was surely a handicap.

ECONOMIST: Democracy in Asia

They wonder aloud whether Kenya can survive more of the mismanagement and corruption that has devastated what was once East Africa's most successful economy.

ECONOMIST: Kenya

Further, Hindu nationalists -- once seen as a disciplined, corruption-free force -- have now held office long enough at the state level for the shine to have disappeared.

CNN: Behind the BJP's Mask

The Bank agreed to resume funding once the government had implemented agreed measures to address corruption.

BBC: Bridge to better growth for Bangladesh

They also once again rouse the growing numbers of critics who allege rampant corruption throughout FIFA. Yet the news that will likely have the most impact going forward does not stem from the bids of any of the three countries listed above.

FORBES: The Game-Changer For Sports In Japan's Failed World Cup Bid

Critics of the government say that recent scandals point to a pervasive culture of corruption in Mr Singh's administration - adding to the difficulties of a politician once seen as India's most honest.

BBC: Corruption 'threatens India's economic growth'

General Musharraf has promised to restore democracy once he has got to grips with the country's perilous economy, corruption and communal violence, but for now all marches and protest rallies are strictly banned.

ECONOMIST: A new face of protest in Pakistan | The

Voters have not spotted any huge decline in corruption under Arnoldo Castillo, and, with voting due on March 21st, by this week son Oscar's once 20-point opinion-poll lead had been cut in half.

ECONOMIST: Argentina

Mr Amato is a clever man who surprised people with his toughness and agility when once before he stepped into the breach as a stopgap prime minister, in 1992, just as the corruption scandals that brought down the old establishment were getting going.

ECONOMIST: Italy��s edgy new government