The Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has died from a sudden infection while recovering from an undisclosed illness. Rumours started circulating as to Meles health, after he failed to attend an African Union summit in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa last month.

Mr Meles had dominated Ethiopian public life since the 1990's first as President in a transitional government in 1991 and then prime minister in 1995.Seen here he is holding a copy of the constitution, after being sworn in as Prime Minister.

This graphic footage shows the conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea which saw many killed. He won praise in the West for helping spur economic growth and for his army's support against al Qaeda-linked militants in neighbouring Somalia.

Immediately following this Announcement State television said that Deputy Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, who is also Ethiopia's foreign minister, will be acting head of government.

He leaves his wife Azeb Mesfin, and three children.

Written and presented by Ann Salter