Uganda rebels release peace dove

The LRA has fought a 21-year rebellion in the north

The Ugandan rebels' chief negotiator Martin Ojul has released a white dove in the capital, Kampala, as a symbol of the group's commitment to peace.
It is the Lord's Resistance Army's first official visit to the city as part of efforts to end their brutal two decade rebellion in the north.

"We're here, committed to make sure we get a final agreement," Mr Ojul said.

During the visit, the rebels hope to meet the president and go up north to discuss justice and reconciliation.

They are being accompanied by some of the mediators and observers from the talks taking place in southern Sudan, where LRA leaders signed a truce with the government in 2006.

They were greeted at Entebbe airport by the interior minister and the government's chief negotiator at peace talks, Dr Ruwakana Rugunda

LRA leader Joseph Kony remains at a rebel camp across the border in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He has refused to take part in long-running but stalled talks unless the International Criminal Court lifts an arrest warrant against him and other top rebel leaders.

On Wednesday, the LRA once again dismissed reports of fighting between Mr Kony and his deputy, leading to mass desertions and a split in the movement.

The person making the accusations is the LRA's Opiyo Makasi who arrived at Entebbe airport on Thursday evening after surrendering last week in DR Congo.