Violence erupted during a rebel rally in Bukavu, DR Congo, resulting in at least 11 deaths and 60 injuries. The rebels, backed by Rwanda, accused the government of orchestrating the attack, while President Tshisekedi blamed a foreign army. This incident highlights ongoing conflicts and humanitarian issues in the region, with over 500,000 people displaced.
Gunfire and explosions erupted at a rally organized by rebel leaders in Bukavu, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo that was recently seized from government forces. Videos captured chaotic scenes with panicked crowds fleeing, leaving bodies on the streets. While casualty numbers remain uncertain, a hospital source quoted by AFP reported at least 11 fatalities and 60 injuries.
This event marked the first rally conducted by the Rwanda-backed rebels in Bukavu since their rapid territorial advances this month. The rebels have accused President Felix Tshisekedi’s government of being behind the violent outbreak, whereas President Tshisekedi attributed the incident to a “foreign army” operating in the eastern region.
The rally featured remarks by Corneille Nangaa, leader of a coalition of rebel factions, which includes the M23 group backed by Rwanda. He assured attendees of forthcoming safety measures, stating, “There will be special units and patrols that will take place in all the communes.” It is believed that both Nangaa and Bertrand Bisimwa had departed the scene prior to the attack’s commencement.
Following the assault, Nangaa announced the arrest of two individuals in relation to the attack and confirmed that additional suspects were being pursued. He condemned the incident as a “cowardly and barbaric act” that would carry consequences.
Since January, the rebel forces have been advancing in eastern DR Congo, capturing both Bukavu and Goma, the largest city in the region, resulting in over 500,000 displaced individuals and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The United Nations and African Union have called for a ceasefire and for rebels to retreat from the territories they currently control.
Rwanda has historically denied its support for the M23 group; however, the nation has recently taken a more defensive stance, citing regional security threats linked to the conflict near its border. UN assessments have previously estimated the presence of 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan military personnel in eastern DR Congo.
In summary, a violent disruption occurred at a rebel rally in Bukavu, resulting in multiple casualties and highlighting ongoing conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The event has raised serious humanitarian concerns, with significant displacements and calls for an international response, particularly regarding alleged foreign intervention in the ongoing crisis.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
