Gaddafi accepts AU peace plan – Zuma

South African President Jacob Zuma says Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi has accepted the African Union roadmap aimed at bringing the conflict in the country to an end.

Pictures broadcast on Libyan television were the first seen of Gaddafi since May 11. Zuma said the lengthy talks in the Libyan capital Tripoli, were productive. But he did not say whether Gaddafi had said he was willing to step down as leader. The rebel forces say that is a precondition for any truce.

After the talks ended, the Zuma delegation was shown Gaddafi’s compound at Bab al-Aziziyah. NATO planes have increased the intensity of their air campaign, and the site has been hit repeatedly.

Britain and France have also announced they are to deploy high-precision attack helicopters.

Meanwhile, eight Libyan army officers, including five generals, appeared at a press conference in Rome earlier, claiming to be from a group of 120 military personnel who have defected from Gaddafi.

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