By empty (8/18/2004 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Chechen presidential candidate Alu Alkhanov said talks with Chechen separatist leaders could be held if Maskhadov admitted that his chosen path is not leading Chechnya to peace. \"If Maskhadov wants peace in Chechnya, if Maskhadov says, \'I understand, I know and I see that this path is not leading the republic and the people to prosperity, quiet life and peace,\' why not hold talks with him?\" Alkhanov told journalists in Moscow on Wednesday following his meeting with representatives of the public and Russia\'s Chechen communities. \"I\'m not conducting any talks with rebel leaders or other representatives now,\" said Alkhanov, who is chairman of the Public Control Commission for Chechnya\'s economic and social rehabilitation.

By empty (8/18/2004 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Information Minister Altynbek Sarsenbaev presented a new draft law on the media on 18 August. Sarsenbaev said that the draft law differs significantly from existing legislation and is based on democratic principles. According to Sarsenbaev, the proposed law simplifies the registration process for media outlets, eliminates criminal penalties for libel, includes mechanisms for guaranteeing free speech and protecting the rights of journalists, and takes away the state\'s right to own controlling stakes in broadcasting companies and news agencies.

By empty (8/17/2004 issue of the CACI Analyst)

Chief of the anti-terrorist force in Dagestan Lt. Col. Gaji Abdurazakov and member of the Russian Interior Ministry anti-terrorist department Maj.