Turmoil At The Top

By Jeremy Caplan

While the Catholic Church was choosing its new Pope last week, many countries were struggling with their own changing of the guard. But unlike the Vatican's stately coronation, these heads of state were fighting for their jobs, facing such accusations as financial fraud and abuse of power. Here's an update on the most embattled global leaders. --By Jeremy Caplan. With reporting by TIME bureaus

Kickbacks In Canada?

Prime Minister Paul Martin may face an early election after allegations of Liberal Party money laundering. He apologized on national TV last week for an "unjustifiable mess."

Ousting Ecuador's Top Dog

Protesters helped topple President Lucio Gutierrez last week, the third time street rage has booted the national government since 1997. He is trying to leave the country for Brazil, which granted him asylum.

Italy Braces For A Battle

After resigning briefly last week when his coalition collapsed, Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi fought back to keep his office. He may now have a year to prove he can boost a sagging economy before elections in 2006.

Troubled Czech

Prime Minister Stanislav Gross, Europe's youngest head of state at 35, said he would step down, after denying accusations of improper financial dealings. Polls show his Social Democrat Party is in its worst shape since 1992.

A Challenge To Power In Uganda

At a public march, a rarity in Kampala, critics of President Yoweri Museveni demanded that he promise to step down after his term ends, as required by the constitution. Backers of Museveni, in power since 1986, staged a rival rally.

With reporting by TIME bureaus