Gaddafi Denies Rumors, Promises to Fight

Tripoli, Sep 8. -Leader Muammar Gaddafi, whose whereabouts were still unknown, described as "psychological warfare and lies" rumors that he had fled to Niger promising to fight the rebels and criticizing them for serving the West.The now fugitive Libyan leader released another audio message denying rumors spread by the National Transitional Council (CNT) and NATO claiming they were aware of his whereabouts and movements.

Gaddafi's message, made public early Thursday morning, backed the statements of his spokesman, Moussa Ibrahim, who affirmed "the leader is in Libya; he is healthy and is very optimistic," and ridiculing CNT speculation that the leader had been located and surrounding.

The rebels were still unable to totally take over the country almost three weeks after they captured the capital due to the resistance of tribal leaders loyal to Gaddafi in Bani Walid and Sirte, the leader's hometown.

Negotiations to obtain the surrender of these cities have failed so far despite NATO air raids on Wednesday over more than 20 military targets in cities of Sabha and Khum to hurt the morale of those defending the cities. (Prensa Latina)