12 Scandals That Toppled World Leaders
This global roundup of political scandals removed presidents and prime ministers from power.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
This list explores world leaders who were ousted due to corruption, abuse of power, or public outrage. Each case reveals how accountability, activism, and institutional resilience can bring down even the most entrenched figures. These stories span continents and decades, offering a sobering look at the fragility of political power.
1. Richard Nixon - Watergate (USA, 1974)
Unknown author or not provided on Wikimedia Commons
The Watergate scandal, involving a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up, led to President Nixon’s resignation. It remains a defining moment in American political history, symbolizing the importance of checks and balances.
2. Park Geun-hye - Influence-Peddling Scandal (South Korea, 2017)
대한민국 국가기록원 on Wikimedia Commons
President Park was impeached after revelations that her confidante, Choi Soon-sil, wielded undue influence over state affairs. Massive protests and legal proceedings underscored the strength of South Korea’s democratic institutions.
3. Pedro Pablo Kuczynski - Odebrecht Scandal (Peru, 2018)
Cancillería de Perú on Wikimedia Commons
Linked to the widespread Odebrecht corruption case, President Kuczynski resigned amid allegations of accepting bribes. His departure highlighted the pervasive nature of corruption in Latin American politics.
4. Jacob Zuma - State Capture Allegations (South Africa, 2018)
Etienne Ansotte on Wikimedia Commons
Accused of allowing the Gupta family to influence state decisions, President Zuma faced mounting pressure and ultimately resigned. The scandal emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
5. Viktor Yanukovych - Euromaidan Protests (Ukraine, 2014)
Administration of the President of Ukraine on Wikimedia Commons
President Yanukovych fled Ukraine following mass protests against his decision to abandon an EU association agreement. His ousting marked a significant shift in Ukraine’s political landscape.
6. Omar al-Bashir - Military Coup (Sudan, 2019)
Prime Minister’s Office on Wikimedia Commons
After decades in power, President al-Bashir was overthrown by the military amid widespread protests over economic mismanagement and repression. His removal opened the door for potential democratic reforms.
7. Alberto Fujimori - Corruption and Human Rights Abuses (Peru, 2000)
Christian Lambiotte / European Communities, 1991 / EC - Audiovisual Service on Wikimedia Commons
President Fujimori resigned amid corruption and human rights violations scandals. His downfall underscored the consequences of authoritarian governance.
8. Slobodan Milosevic - Electoral Fraud and Protests (Serbia, 2000)
FranéRogoz on Wikimedia Commons
Accused of electoral fraud, President Milosevic faced mass protests, which led to his resignation. His exit marked the end of an era and a move toward democratic transition in Serbia.
9. Mohamed Morsi - Military Coup (Egypt, 2013)
Ministry of Communications and Information Technology in Egypt on Wikimedia Commons
Egypt’s first democratically elected president, Morsi was ousted by the military following mass protests against his rule. The event sparked debates about democracy and military intervention.
10. Silvio Berlusconi - Legal Troubles and Economic Crisis (Italy, 2011)
European People’s Party on Wikimedia Commons
Facing legal challenges and an economic downturn, Prime Minister Berlusconi resigned amid declining support. His departure highlighted the impact of personal scandals on political stability.
11. Robert Mugabe - Military Intervention (Zimbabwe, 2017)
khamenei.ir on Wikimedia Commons
After decades in power, President Mugabe was forced to resign following military intervention. His exit ended an era and opened discussions on Zimbabwe’s future governance.
12. Muammar Gaddafi - Civil War and Uprising (Libya, 2011)
U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jesse B. Awalt/Released on Wikimedia Commons
After ruling for over 40 years, Gaddafi was overthrown and killed during Libya’s civil uprising. His fall marked the violent collapse of a regime long criticized for repression and excess.