'Don't leave Americans in the jungle,' urges ex-hostage

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2008

BOGOTA (AFP) — A just-released rebel hostage said Wednesday three Americans were faring badly after years held captive by Colombian rebels, and called on President George W. Bush and US presidential hopefuls to do their utmost for their release.

"I bring a very clear message for the president and for presidential candidates (Barack) Obama and (John) McCain," former Colombian lawmaker Luis Eladio Perez told radio Caracol by telephone from Caracas.

"Please don't leave these Americans in exile in the Colombian jungle," he said after arriving in Venezuela with three ex-hostages that FARC rebels released into Venezuelan custody.

As happened in another FARC release last month, the former hostages -- who also included former lawmakers Gloria Polanco, Orlando...