During the 1970s, 80s and 90s, the west African part of the continent had a poor reputation. Time was when the most exclusive club in the world was the African heads of state club. But not today, with so many West African presidents being former opposition leaders themselves. A few years ago, Mr Jammeh might have been able to bluff his way through it and hold onto power. It would appear from the joint statement issued by the UN, AU and Ecowas that Mr Jammeh was promised immunity from prosecution in return for leaving.

Police in Thailand are seeking two suspects, a South African and a Briton, in the killing of a British man in the Thai resort town of Pattaya. He said Bonito, from South Africa, is suspected of being the gunman and Briton Turner the driver who whisked him away on a motorcycle after Tuesday`s shooting. Jitti said both men have left Thailand but he declined to say to where. They have suggested the killing may have been related to a business dispute. Police said witnesses and surveillance cameras helped identify the suspects.