A new law makes sure kidnapped soldiers and policemen can get a promotion

From now on, kidnapped policemen and soldiers will be able to get a promotion, according to a new law sanctioned by President Alvaro Uribe.

To be able to get it, the kidnapped troops must have spent in the jungle the same period a soldier or a policeman normally spends in the army before being promoted.

The law also guarantees that the families will receive the salaries of their kidnapped relatives while they are hostages.