Mahinda Rajapaksa's 10-year reign as Sri Lankan president ended with allegations of nepotism and corruption. Over 40 top government positions were held by his family and friends - cabinet portfolios to state finance corporations, airlines and sports federations. One of his brothers was his defence secretary, while another was the speaker of the parliament. A nephew is chief minister of Uva Province while a brother-in-law was the chairman of the state carrier, Sri Lankan Airlines. His son, Namal, was being groomed as his political heir.
