Yemen rebels seek presidential pardon

0 Comments | AFP, May, 2005

SANAA (AFP) — Leaders of a Yemeni rebel group involved in an anti-government rebellion that has cost the lives of hundreds of people have appealed for a presidential pardon.

The call in a letter signed by the Faithful Youth movement's spiritual leader Badr Eddin al-Huthi came after the authorities claimed they had put down the revolt in the northwest of the impoverished country after fighting that left some 280 people dead.

Presidential sources quoted the letter as saying the rebels were surprised by the launch of the assault in April, which they described as "unjustifiable... as we have never denied the presidential regime."

"As citizens, we ask you to bring to an end the injustice committed against us. If this is done, we are prepared to present ourselves...