Rebels hang back on capital assault for new peace talks
Wednesday 02 January 2013
Printable
EmailRebels in the Central African Repubic announced today that they were halt their attack on the capital to hold peace talks with the government.
Seleka rebels have moved to within striking distance of Bangui following a lightning three-week campaign.
They have taken a number of cities without even firing shots in their bid to oust President Francois Bozize, who they accuse of reneging on a 2008 peace deal.
But Chadian troops are defending Bangui and warned they would repel any attack.
Rebels have insisted they will continue to demand Mr Bozize's resignation but are seeking a political solution through the talks in Gabon.
Mr Bozize has said he'll stay until elections in 2016.
Regional bloc Eccas has been leading the peace talk push and its members have contributed troops to protect Mr Bozize.
It has also indicated that it would slap sanctions on any government that came to power unconstitutionally.
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