African Leader Appeals To Nehru

Press, Volume C, Issue 29602, 26 August 1961, Page 15

African Leader Appeals To Nehru

(N Z.P.A-Rcuter—Copyright) NEW DELHI, August 23. The Indian Prime Minister (Mr Nehru) has received an appeal from Mr Kenneth Kaunda to do something about “the killing of Africans and the total uprooting of villages” in Northern Rhodesia.

Mr Nehru, in making his announcement in Parliament today, said that troops “are adopting very oppressive measures" in some areas in North Northern Rhodesia Mr Nehru read out a telegram which he said he had received this morning from Mr Kaunda. the African leader in Northern Rhodesia It said the killing and uprooting of villages “by socalled security forces" continued.

“I implore you in the name of God and humanity." Mr Kaunda wrote, “to raise the situation in the United Nations General Assembly debate on Tunisia, and also directly with Mr Macmillan." The message, whose accuracy Mr Nehru said he

was unable to vouch for, was heard by Parliament in absolute silence, said the Associated Press. After a long pause after reading it. Mr Nehru said Mr Kaunda had been moderate in his speeches, and had offered his services to halt the violence. "The Government did not take advantage of this offer." Mr Nehru said. “And instead it sent troops who are adopting very oppressive measures."

Mr Nehru gave no Indication what response he would make to Mr Kaunda'a appeal. He praised Mr Kaunda as one of the eminent younger leaders Africa has produced.