The Chadian ruling military council has rejected an offer of ceasefire talks with rebels it has been fighting since the death of President IDRISS DÉBY.

The rebels, known as the Front for Change and Concord in Chad, said they were ready to discuss a political settlement, but did not endorse General MAHAMAT DÉBY’s coming to power.

The military council spokesman AZEM AGOUNA in a statement, however said it was not the time for mediation or negotiations with criminals, due to the current situation.

AGOUNA added that some of the rebels had fled into neighbouring Niger, and urged authorities there to facilitate the capture and bringing to justice of the war criminals.