Thirteen people lost their lives, and dozens suffered injuries after explosions tore through a political rally in Bukavu, eastern Congo.
The Congolese government and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have accused each other of orchestrating Thursday’s attack, fueling fears of escalating conflict.
The Congolese army claimed that Rwandan troops and their rebel allies fired grenades and rockets into the crowd, targeting civilians.
“The Rwandan army and its proxies bombed and fired live ammunition at the civilian population,” the Congolese interior ministry stated.
Rwandan officials have not yet responded to these accusations, while Kigali continues to deny supporting M23 rebels.
Corneille Nangaa, leader of an alliance that includes M23, blamed Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, alleging Burundian troops were responsible.
Burundi’s army denied involvement, stating that none of its soldiers were present in Bukavu at the time of the attack.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with one attacker attempting to target rebel leaders but instead striking the crowd.
“The grenade exploded too soon,” said a witness, who reported that the explosion also killed the attacker.
In the aftermath, Bukavu residents rushed to donate blood, as hospitals struggled to treat 68 wounded victims.
“We were called to give blood after the tragedy, so our brothers can have a chance to live,” said donor Augustin Mihigo.
Grieving families gathered at the hospital, waiting to identify loved ones while authorities delayed the release of bodies.
“They tell us authorization hasn’t been given yet. Will it come today, tomorrow, or the day after?” said Jean-Paul Mulagizi.
The attack has cast a shadow over peace efforts, with a planned ceasefire discussion between regional leaders now postponed.
Since January, the conflict has killed 7,000 people and displaced nearly half a million, further destabilizing the region.
The United Nations reported that 60,000 Congolese refugees have fled into Burundi over the past two weeks alone.