President Mobutu returned but did not appear in public, causing speculation about his health.

Such a move would put pressure on President Mobutu, who has ruled for 28 years, to hand over real power to an interim government.

But before that point can be reached, the conferees must agree on what role, if any, President Mobutu will play until new elections are held.

The meeting was called by President Mobutu and 17 other African leaders.

President Mobutu has put pressure on the conference, often with troops, and had repeatedly sought to have it abolished.

The remarks today by President Mobutu were the most extensive he has made since the violence erupted last month.

President Mobutu can use new sources of trade and investment right now.

To President Mobutu, an attack on his name, position or prestige has always been justification to do anything against those who oppose him.

Unfortunately, under the dictatorship of President Mobutu, the country has fallen into economic and political crisis.

"President Mobutu didn't ask the people to vote for their leaders," he said.