Gunfire and explosions erupted at a rebel rally in Bukavu, DR Congo, leading to at least 11 deaths and 60 injuries. Rebels accused the government of organizing the attack, while President Tshisekedi blamed a foreign army. The rally was the first since their takeover of Bukavu, amid growing humanitarian crises with approximately 500,000 displaced. Calls for a ceasefire have been issued by the UN and African Union, as Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict has come into question.
Gunfire and explosions disrupted a rally organized by rebel leaders in Bukavu, a city recently captured in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Videos depict chaotic scenes with bodies scattered on the streets as attendees fled in terror. Reports from a local hospital indicate at least 11 fatalities and approximately 60 injuries stemming from the violence.
This marked the inaugural rally of the Rwanda-backed rebels in Bukavu following their takeover of the city earlier this month amidst a rapid military advance. The rebels have accused President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration of orchestrating the violence, while Tshisekedi attributed the violence to the presence of a “foreign army” in the eastern region.
The rally featured remarks from Corneille Nangaa, leader of a coalition of rebel factions, including the M23 group, who assured attendees of enhanced security measures following their efforts to stabilize the area. Reports suggest that both Nangaa and M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa had departed the site before the attack occurred.
In the aftermath, Nangaa reported that two individuals had been detained in relation to the unrest, with ongoing efforts to identify further suspects. He condemned the attack as a “cowardly and barbaric act” that would not go unpunished.
Since January, the rebels have been advancing through eastern DR Congo, capturing Bukavu and Goma, which has contributed to the displacement of approximately 500,000 individuals and exacerbated the existing humanitarian crisis, according to United Nations statistics. The African Union and the UN have called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of rebel forces from contested regions.
Traditionally, Rwanda has denied providing support to the M23, but it recently shifted to a more defensive stance, citing threats to national security due to combat near its borders with DR Congo. Previous assessments by UN experts have indicated the presence of between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan troops in the eastern part of the DR Congo.
The recent rally in Bukavu has resulted in significant violence, with multiple casualties as rebel factions assert their presence in the region. The Ukrainian government and external observers have called for a ceasefire amid escalating tensions, while the humanitarian situation remains dire due to the conflict-driven displacement of tens of thousands. The involvement of foreign powers continues to complicate the situation, hindering efforts for stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
