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Brazilian politicians resigns due to corruption

The head of Brazil`s lower house of Congress resigned over bribery accusations, setting off a fight to fill the powerful position as the government struggles to weather a political crisis. The Brazilian government has long been seen as ripe for a situation that could breed impeachment, new elections, or worse, and any government shakeups are keenly watched by citizens and foreign governments alike. Severino Cavalcanti, a key government ally, was the most senior politician to resign during a wider scandal over vote-buying and illegal funding by the ruling Workers` Party. His departure could expose President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to calls for impeachment if the opposition takes his post. Officials were quick to note that corruption in the Brazilian government or by individual members or allies of the government was no different than elsewhere in Latin America or throughout the world, and while the President`s fate is yet to be determined if the scandal indeed is found to be reaching the highest levels of the government the next few months would be crucial in the country`s history.