Casamance rebels say Dakar not interested in peace talks

The Movement of Democratic Forces offers peace talks. By (AFP/Graphic)

DAKAR (AFP) - Senegal's southern separatist movement, which has waged a low-level struggle for independence for three decades, said Thursday Dakar had shown no interest in their offer for talks in neutral territory.

"The Casamance Movement of Democratic Forces reminds the world of ... its availability to sit at a table in neutral territory, outside of Africa to find a solution to the war in Casamance," said a statement.

"Until now, Senegal has said nothing about this," read the statement signed by Salif Sadio, who described himself as the chief of the MFDC's underground forces.

Sadio announced at the end of January he would accept mediation outside Africa led by the Catholic community Sant'Egidio, known for mediating international disputes.

President Abdoulaye Wade said he had asked Sant'Egidio to serve as intermediary for dialogue.

Casamance, a region geographically separated from the north of Senegal by the Gambia has known periods of calm since 1982 and spells of heavy fighting. Several peace pacts have been signed but never implemented.

Thousands have been killed and displaced in the conflict.

Sadio reminded politicians that "the Casamance problem is waiting" for whoever is elected in March 25 polls, in which Wade is facing ex-prime minister Macky Sall.