(26 May 1996) French/Nat
The week-old mutiny in the Central African Republic appears in disarray - with rebel leaders both denouncing the president and offering to return to their barracks.
The mutineers released some hostages and said they were willing to return to their barracks but were adamant that it would only be a "tactical withdrawal".
President Ange-Felix Patasse has now reiterated an offer of amnesty for the rebels and has again urged them to end their uprising.
The soccer stadium outside the Central African Republic capital of Bangui looked more like a military parade ground than an sports venue Sunday.
Army helicopters, armoured personnel carriers and clusters of heavily armed soldiers arrived to bring mediators, eager to help end the crisis in the country.
The first helicopter brought Catholic Archbishop Ndayan.
He arrived in Bangui to help President Ange-Felix Patasse and the mutinying troops find a peaceful solution to the military uprising.
Flanked by armed guards, rebel spokesman Cyriaque Souke told him the renegade soldiers were ready to make some concessions.
But he stressed there would be no surrender of weapons.
SOUNDBITE: (French)
Our weapons will not be handed over. We will pull away from certain positions to other positions more strategic while still keeping our weapons. We are going to do what is known in military terms a tactical withdrawal, but the weapons will be kept until we get to final negotiations.
(So you are still in a state of war, in a way?)
Well, let's say not in a state of war, because we were not in a state of war with President Patasse, but I think we are in a defensive position.
SUPER CAPTION: Cyriaque Souke, Rebel spokesman
French infantry units then secured the area for the arrival of French General Bernard Thorette.
Thorette had arrived in order to secure the release of hostages held by the rebel soldiers.
The general told reporters he was happy with the progress that had been made, but said it was too early to comment on the negotiations.
SOUNDBITE: (French)
First results, that's all I can say. Thank you.
(Reporter question: Isn't it startling to see (the area) surrounded by the French military?) Be nice. Be nice.
SUPER CAPTION: French General Bernard Thorette
Reports suggest the rebels freed four hostages, including a government minister and the parliament speaker, but continued to hold the army chief of staff and one other hostage.
Thorette also briefly met rebel leader Non Commissioned Officer Dokodo Sunday, though details about their meeting are not known.
The rebel soldiers have been under pressure since France, the former colonial power, put its military might behind Patasse on Wednesday.
And although their rebellion now seems in disarray, Dokodo was pleased that the uprising had achieved some goals.
SOUNDBITE: (French)
Very satisfied.
(Did you keep your weapons?)
Yes.
(Are you sure of your security?)
One cannot...security...my security...security for Monsignor... first of all, it's the soldiers behind me, and it's the people of Central Africa.
SUPER CAPTION: Non Commissioned Officer Dokodo, rebel leader
Bangui was relatively quiet Sunday.
French soldiers and presidential guards patrolled the streets, and civilians began venturing outside, many to attend church.
The death toll from the uprising remains unclear, with hospital officials reporting at
least 50 dead but opposition sources putting the number far higher.
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