Recent gunfire and explosions at a rebel rally in Bukavu, DR Congo, have resulted in at least 11 deaths and numerous injuries. The rally, the first held by Rwanda-backed rebels since taking the city, was marked by chaos as the leaders had already departed. The conflict has displaced approximately 500,000 people, triggering international calls for a ceasefire amid claims of foreign military involvement.
In Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, gunfire and explosions disrupted a rally led by rebel leaders following their recent takeover of the city. The chaotic incident, which resulted in bodies strewn across the streets, sent the crowd into a panic. Estimates indicate at least 11 fatalities and 60 injuries, as reported by a hospital source to AFP news agency.
This rally marked the first public engagement for the Rwanda-supported rebels since seizing Bukavu from government forces earlier this month amid rapid territorial advances. During the rally, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, was accused by the rebels of orchestrating the violent episode. Conversely, Tshisekedi attributed the violence to foreign military involvement in the area.
Corneille Nangaa, the leader of the rebel coalition, addressed the gathering, promising enhanced security for the city. He stated that “special units and patrols will take place in all the communes.” It is reported that both Nangaa and M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa had departed prior to the attack when it occurred.”
In response to the violence, Nangaa announced the detention of two suspects linked to the incident and indicated that a wider search for additional culprits was underway, declaring, “This cowardly and barbaric act will not go without consequences.” The ongoing fighting in the eastern region since January has led to the displacement of approximately 500,000 individuals, exacerbating an already serious humanitarian crisis, according to U.N. assessments.
Both the African Union and the United Nations have called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of rebel forces from contested areas. Rwanda has previously denied supporting the M23 but now asserts that confrontations near its border pose significant security threats, with estimates suggesting the presence of 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers in eastern DR Congo.
In conclusion, the recent rebel rally in Bukavu, marked by violence and casualties, reflects the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The aftermath has seen significant military and humanitarian implications, with calls for a ceasefire from international bodies. The involvement of foreign troops complicates the situation further as local populations endure severe crises due to displacement and insecurity.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
