11.   Karadzic withdrew from public life last year under strong international pressure, but he continues to wield immense influence backstage.

12.   Monks in Sri Lanka wield immense influence over the government, which is bound by the constitution to protect and foster Buddhism.

13.   The Jockey Club holds a monopoly over gambling and at one time was thought to wield immense political influence.

14.   The speaker of the house has one of the most powerful jobs in U.S. politics, with immense influence in setting the legislative agenda.

15.   Through Krajisnik and others, Karadzic continues to wield immense influence from behind the scenes after being forced out because he was indicted by the U.N. war crimes tribunal.

16.   Under strong international pressure, Karadzic withdrew from public life last year but continues to wield immense influence from behind the scenes.

17.   Under strong international pressure, Karadzic withdrew from public life last year but continued to wield immense influence from behind the scenes.

18.   As the head of the Buddhist clergy in the east, Seelalanka wielded immense influence in the region and was known for his hardline stance against the LTTE.