awkward
questions, it's been alleged that the soldiers were there as a part of a business deal, essentially guarding the country's now ousted president in return for lucrative mining contracts. But today the ANC hit back threatening legal action and furiously accusing one newspaper of urinating on the graves of gallant fighters.
The Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir has ordered the
release
of all political prisoners. In a speech at the opening session of parliament, President Bashir also called for dialogue with other political parties. Correspondents say there's been a easing of
tension
between Sudan and South Sudan since they agreed to
resume
pumping oil last month.
The United States says it's not seen any evidence of large-scale troop movements by North Korea, but its latest threats have been taken seriously. There's been shrill rhetoric from the North in recent days including the declaration of a state of war with South Korea. The White House spokesman Jay Carney said the US had already taken measures in response.
"The actions we've taken are prudent, and they include on
missile
defence to enhance both the homeland and ally security
and other actions like the B-2 and B-52 flights have been important steps to reassure our allies, demonstrate our
resolve
to the North, and reduce pressure on Seoul to take unilateral action."
Earlier South Korea warned of a strong and swift military reaction to any provocation from the North.