Algiers - Influential Muslim intellectuals and leaders issued an appeal yesterday calling on armed groups in Algeria to join a ceasefire being observed by one of the country's main Islamic extremist groups.
The appeal, signed by some 30 leading figures in the Muslim world, said armed groups should take part in a ceasefire held since October 1st, 1997, by the Armed Islamic Army (AIS), the political wing of the outlawed Islamic Salvation Front (FIS).