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A deadly attack Thursday, February 27, 2025 disrupted a rally organized by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in Bukavu, a key city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The gathering, meant to solidify rebel control and reassure residents, turned into a scene of chaos as gunfire and explosions forced people to flee for their lives.
Videos from the scene depicted harrowing moments, with bodies sprawled on the streets amid the panicked exodus. While the exact death toll remained uncertain, medical sources cited by AFP news agency indicated that at least 11 people had been killed and around 60 others injured.
This was the first major public event held by the rebels since they seized Bukavu from government forces earlier this month, following a rapid and strategic advance across eastern DRC. The rally, led by Corneille Nangaa, the head of a rebel alliance that includes the M23 group, was intended to signal the beginning of a new order under their rule.
During his address, Nangaa sought to reassure the public, promising increased security and specialized patrols to maintain stability in the city. However, shortly after he and M23 leader Bertrand Bisimwa had reportedly left the venue, the attack unfolded, turning what was meant to be a demonstration of control into a bloodbath.
In the aftermath, blame for the violence was swiftly exchanged. The rebels accused President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration of orchestrating the assault, claiming it was an attempt to disrupt their governance and incite instability. On the other hand, Tshisekedi pointed fingers at a “foreign army” operating in eastern DRC, a thinly veiled reference to Rwanda, which has long been accused of backing the M23 insurgency.
For years, tensions between Rwanda and the DRC have been fueled by allegations that Kigali is supporting rebel movements to exert influence in the region. Although Rwanda initially denied involvement, it has recently defended its military presence near the border, citing security concerns. UN experts estimate that thousands of Rwandan troops are operating in eastern DRC.
The escalation comes as eastern DRC grapples with worsening humanitarian conditions, with over 500,000 people displaced since the rebel offensive began in January. The United Nations and the African Union have urged an immediate ceasefire and withdrawal of rebel forces, but with violence persisting and diplomatic tensions rising, a peaceful resolution remains elusive.
Meanwhile, Nangaa, in a statement following the attack, vowed that those responsible would face consequences. He confirmed that two individuals had been arrested and that efforts were ongoing to apprehend more suspects.
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