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.