An attempt to end more than seven years of civil war is being vigorously opposed by a guerrilla faction intent on overthrowing the government. A referendum to approve a peace plan between the government and Islamic moderates is scheduled for mid-September, but the militants continue to spread terror among the populace, most recently murdering 14 people in Medea province Aug. 27. Most violence since the peace deal was signed in June has been in isolated areas, but it would be prudent to defer travel here until the referendum has been held.
