DRC rebels will not disband by deadline

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- Democratic Republic of Congo rebel leader Laurent Nkunda says his forces will not disband in response to an upcoming government-imposed deadline.

The rebel general said that while government officials imposed a time table for his troops to disband and become part of the national military, he would not capitulate to such demands until additional negotiations take place, the BBC reported Sunday.

Chief among Nkunda's concerns was the presence of Hutu rebels in the eastern Congo, something he deemed unacceptable.

"This is not normal, and the government must accept to discuss this issue," said Nkunda, who had been given a Monday deadline for dispersing his troops.

Nkunda also warned government officials that if the military forces attacked his rebel stronghold of Mushaki, his forces would be forced to defend themselves.

The BBC said the rebel leader was very concerned for Congolese Tutsi refugees in countries like Burundi and Rwanda.

"Other refugees are coming back, but the Tutsi are not coming back," Nkunda said. "We ask the government to protect the Tutsi."