41.   After prodding from Annan, Alatas also pledged to release the celebrated Timorese independence rebel leader Xanana Gusmao from house arrest once a final deal has been struck.

42.   Agents had arrested another rebel leader in Mexico City on Thursday, along with at least seven people in Veracruz who were said to be linked to the Zapatistas.

43.   But a rebel leader who gave his name only as Benjamin said most of the demonstrators came from a nearby village that is a Zapatista stronghold.

44.   But Alape, who last met with the rebel leader about three months ago, disagrees.

45.   But Chechnya is a turbulent region, ruled by blood feuds and clan loyalties, where many rebel leaders are vying for power.

46.   But even before the news of his dismissal became official, rebel leaders in Chechnya were warning that without Lebed in charge, the war could well resume.

47.   But even with his gifts as an orator and writer, the masked rebel leader is no Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

48.   But he said the rebel leader Savimbi is to blame.

49.   But his position as a rebel leader declined with time.

50.   But in recent days key rebel leaders have signaled a new interest in negotiations, agreeing to meet with government representatives in Sweden.