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As the new Turkmen leader, Saparmurat Niyazov has absolute power. He uses it to construct one of history’s most surreal regimes. Rebuilding the capital city in white marble, he puts his own mother at the forefront of public life. A series of absurd policies begins. Even as the War on Terror lands on his doorstep, the tyrant seems unstoppable. But, somehow, opposition will emerge, culminating in a dramatic attempt on his life.

A Noiser production, written by Dan Smith. Research by Derek Henry Flood.

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Listen to Real Dictators Turkmenbashy Part 2: Putin, Taliban, Internet Shutdown

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