AU Delegation in Libya for Ceasefire Talks

By Staff Writer

TRIPOLI---South African President Jacob Zuma, who led a five-strong African Union (AU) delegation to the Libyan capital, said he was optimistic that a settlement would be reached. The delegation, minus Zuma, who was leaving Libya on Sunday night, will travel to Benghazi today to present the plan to the rebel opposition leadership.

The panel, said to have been approved by the European Union to mediate in Libya, comprises of leaders from South Africa, Mauritania, Mali, Uganda and Congo. The team says it wants an immediate end to all hostilities. It also is seeking to provide a regular supply of humanitarian aid and the beginning of a dialogue between the Libyan government and its opponents. The African envoys say Libya also should plan for a transition period ushering in reforms.

An earlier statement from the South African presidency stated: "The [African Union] committee has been granted permission by Nato to enter Libya and to meet in Tripoli with.. [Col] Gaddafi. The AU delegation will also meet with the Interim Transitional National Council in Benghazi on 10 and 11 April."

"The AU considers it's up to the Libyan people to choose democratically their leaders", said an AU official. He added that the plan included an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid, the protection of foreign nationals in Libya, and dialogue between Libyan parties on the establishment of a transition period towards political reform.

Speaking to journalists outside Gaddafi's compound at Bab al-Azizia, Zuma said "The brother leader delegation has accepted the roadmap as presented by us". He also called on Nato to stop air strikes on Libyan military targets "to give a ceasefire a chance".

Heavy gunfire and loud explosions were heard in the town on Sunday, with reports of intense shelling of the town from the west, from where pro-Gaddafi forces are attacking.

The rebels have said they would respect a cease-fire if government troops withdrew from the positions they control, an unlikely event. Colonel Gadhafi has declared a cease-fire before, but his forces continue to fight.

One rebel to the east of Ajdabiya told Reuters: "There is resistance inside the city. Gaddafi forces are fighting with rebels. They have a presence inside."

Asked about the prospects of a deal, Zuma - who has had a close relationship with Gaddafi, said: "I am optimistic."

Gaddafi had included the possibility of him relinquishing power, however, opposition forces insist they will not consider any deal that involves Gaddafi or his family retaining power.

The mission will face a difficult task as the rebels have refused to discuss a ceasefire without the removal of Col Gaddafi and his family.