Violence Erupts at Rebel Rally in Bukavu, DR Congo

Gunfire and explosions disrupted a rally in Bukavu, DR Congo, attended by rebel leaders, resulting in at least 11 deaths and 60 injuries. The incident occurred shortly after the rebels captured the city, with both the rebels and the government blaming each other for the violence. The ongoing conflict has caused significant displacement and humanitarian concerns, with international bodies calling for a ceasefire.

Gunfire and explosions erupted during a rally held by rebel leaders in Bukavu, a city recently taken by these groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Videos captured frantic scenes as the crowd fled the area in panic, leaving the streets strewn with bodies. Preliminary reports quote hospital sources indicating at least 11 fatalities and 60 injuries, although official casualty figures remain unclear.

This incident marked the first rally organized by the Rwanda-supported rebels since they captured Bukavu earlier this month after a quick advance. The rebels accused President Felix Tshisekedi’s government of orchestrating the violence, while Tshisekedi himself suggested that a foreign military presence was responsible for the attack.

The rally featured speeches from Corneille Nangaa, the leader of the alliance of rebel factions, including the M23 group. He assured the attendees that the rebels were committed to restoring safety in Bukavu, stating, “There will be special units and patrols that will take place in all the communes.” Reports indicate that Nangaa and Bertrand Bisimwa were no longer present when the incident occurred.

In a subsequent statement, Nangaa mentioned that two individuals were arrested in connection to the assault while a broader search for additional suspects was underway. He strongly condemned the attack, declaring, “This cowardly and barbaric act will not go without consequences.”

The ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo has resulted in the displacement of approximately 500,000 individuals, deepening an existing humanitarian crisis, as reported by the United Nations. Calls for a ceasefire have come from both the African Union and the UN, urging the rebels to evacuate the territories they have seized.

Rwanda, once denying its support for the M23, has shifted its stance to highlight threats posed by the conflict near its border. Previous assessments from UN experts estimated that 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan troops are currently stationed in eastern DR Congo.

The rally in Bukavu, which turned violent due to gunfire and explosions, exemplifies the escalating conflict involving rebel forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite assurances from rebel leaders about security improvements, the rising casualty figures and displacement underscore a dire humanitarian situation. This incident raises significant concerns, prompting international calls for a ceasefire and highlighting the involvement of foreign military forces in the region.

Original Source: www.bbc.com