Peace talks boost as rebels give up claim

LIBERIA’S main rebel group yesterday gave up their claim to the vice-presidency in a new government, a condition which had threatened ongoing peace talks, according to a spokesman for the insurgents.

Kabineh Ja'neh, who is leading the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) rebel group at peace parleys in Ghana, said after pressure from mediators they had decided not to stake claim for the vice presidency.

"OK fine, we leave it," he said but stressed that the speaker's post should be technically opened to all players.