The president , speaking at his palace in the capital , Mogadishu , said local elders and religious leaders , acting as liaisons with the militants , brought him a message saying the rebels wanted a truce in the two-year-old fighting . Concession is attempt to halt fighting between Somali ##s , Islamic militants . President Ahmed said he wo n't agree to a strict interpretation of Islamic law . President also has asked African troops to stand down .
Concession is attempt to halt fighting between Somali ##s , Islamic militants . President Ahmed said he wo n't agree to a strict interpretation of Islamic law . President also has asked African troops to stand down .