Use BBC.com or the new BBC App to listen to BBC podcasts, Radio 4 and the World Service outside the UK.

Find out how to listen to other BBC stations

Episode details

World Service,02 Sep 2010,25 mins

Happy Birthday Mr President

Assignment

Available for over a year

President Yahya Jammeh of Gambia claims to have invented a cure for Aids, and has declared himself a hero of agriculture and development. He is also known for his extravagance, where he celebrates in style. Yahya Jammeh has maintained a firm grip on power since taking over with a military victory in 1994. His critics accuse him of being dictatorial, and human rights groups say he has suppressed opponents and the free press in Gambia. For Assignment, Ed Butler visits Gambia and examines the legacy of one of the continent's longest-serving leaders.

Programme Website
More episodes