|
 BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) - Through public spectacle and private diplomacy, the French government and the family of Ingrid Betancourt have succeeded in drawing the world's attention to her lengthy captivity in the Colombian jungle. But many in Colombia say such fame may work against her hopes of freedom.
As Betancourt, 46, marks six years on Saturday as a captive of leftist rebels, relatives plan to pray for her liberation at a public Mass while commemorations are planned across France. Her mother recently gained an audience with Pope Benedict XVI, and French officials have promoted her cause in frequent trips to the region.
The vigorous lobbying for Betancourt's freedom seeks to pressure Colombia's government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, to agree to swap dozens of FARC-held hostages for hundreds of jailed rebels, including two in U.S. prisons.
|