Uganda urges rebels to accept cease-fire
JUBA, South Sudan – Uganda’s president on Monday warned South Sudan’s rebel leader against rejecting the government’s offer of a cease-fire, saying regional leaders would unite to “defeat” the former vice president who is accused of mounting a failed coup in the world’s newest country.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni told reporters in Juba, the South Sudan capital, that a regional bloc known as IGAD had given Riek Machar “four days to respond” to the cease-fire offer.
“If he doesn’t we shall have to go for him, all of us,” he said, referring to IGAD.
A meeting of East African leaders last week said it “welcomed the commitment” by South Sudan’s government to cease hostilities against rebels and urged both sides to start peace talks by today. Machar instead called for a negotiated cease-fire that includes a way to monitor compliance.
China steps up efforts against public smoking
BEIJING — China, which has the world’s largest number of smokers, appears to be making another effort at limiting smoking by banning officials from lighting up in public.
The official Xinhua News Agency said officials are not allowed to smoke in schools, hospitals, sports venues, on public transport or any other places where smoking is banned, or to smoke or offer cigarettes when performing official duties.
They also cannot use public funds to buy cigarettes, and within Communist Party or government offices, tobacco products cannot be sold nor adverts displayed.
Associated Press
