Ethiopia's Agony

An exclusive report on the supposedly model African state, where human rights abuses have continued to grow since May's controversial elections.

Ethiopia's Prime Minister Meles Zenawi

Channel 4 News, UK -- Ethiopia's Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has, until recently, been regarded in the West as one of a new breed of African leaders - picked by Tony Blair to draft his Commission for Africa report on how to reduce poverty and promote democracy on the continent.

But a European Union report due out shortly is expected to pinpoint serious irregularities in last May's disputed elections, which were followed by the arrest of Zenawi's political opponents and mass detentions. 23 opposition leaders now face possible treason charges. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Channel Four News, Meles Zenawi has defended the actions of his security forces.

But - as Inigo Gilmore reports from the capital, Addis Ababa - allegations of human rights abuses continue to grow, calling into question the future of foreign aid to Ethiopia.

GO to channel4.com to WATCH the report.