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Episode details

World Service,09 Sep 2023,23 mins

Parents seek justice in Gambian cough syrup scandal

From Our Own Correspondent

Available for over a year

Pascale Harter introduces reports from Gambia, Iran, Washington DC, and Chile. Last year more than 70 children in Gambia, all aged under five, died of acute kidney failure after consuming one of four cough syrups made by an Indian company. Now, a group of 19 parents is suing the manufacturer, Maiden Pharmaceuticals, and Gambian health authorities. As the first court hearing draws closer, Sam Bradpiece hears one parent's story. Iranian authorities are readying themselves for potential protests on the first anniversary of the death of Mahsa Amini. The 22-year-old, who was arrested for wearing her headscarf improperly and later died in police custody, sparked nationwide demonstrations. Lois Pryce hears from two friends in Iran who are prepared to face violence, and even their own deaths, by taking to the streets again 12 months on. Mike Wendling reports from Washington DC, where one of the leaders of the far right militant group The Proud Boys has been sentenced for his role in the US Capitol riots of 2021. Enrique Tarrio broke down in court and spoke of his shame as he was jailed for 22 years And in Chile, 50 years since General Augusto Pinochet, backed by the CIA, overthrew the elected president, Salvador Allende, the country is trying to move on from the military coup and the decades of torture and repression that followed. But, as Jane Chambers learns, Pinochet's legacy continues to affect Chilean politics and drive a wedge between those on the right and left. Producers: Julie Ball and Simon Tulett Editor: Bridget Harney Production Coordinator: Gemma Ashman (Image: Families of children who died after taking cough syrup in Gambia. Credit: BBC)

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