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Central African Rep rebels demand release of those arrested in Dec

However, the authorities do not do anything with regard to the arrested

PRETORIA, February 27 (Itar-Tass) - Rebels in the Central African Republic have delivered a 48-hour ultimatum to the authorities on Wednesday, demanding the release of detainees arrrested during the December unrest.

Colonel Djouma Narkoyo of the Seleka Coalition stated that the insurgents gave President Francois Bozize two days for the release of the arrested. However, he did not say anything about measures in the event of the authorities' refusal to do that.

According to Colonel Narkoyo's data, General Arba with his forces took up positions near Wange township, 25 km from the city of Damara.

"They demand that we retreat and get disarmed. However, the authorities do not do anything with regard to the arrested," Colonel Narkoyo said.

At the end of last year, the rebels mounted a rapid advance on Bangui but stopped the advance under international presssure. As a result of talks, Bozize agreed to appoint a representative of the opposition to the premiership and give the rebels several ministerial portfolios.

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