Tension escalated in Bukavu after heavy gunfire erupted following a public address by M23 rebel leader Corneille Nangaa. The shooting, which took place shortly after his speech, has raised concerns about the stability of the region, despite M23’s claims of restoring order in the territory they have seized from the Congolese army.
Nangaa, making his first public appearance in Bukavu since the rebel takeover, announced plans for increased security measures, including special patrol units in all communes. However, just as the meeting concluded, chaos unfolded as gunfire rang out in all directions.
“There was shooting in all directions. We don’t know what happened. There are injured people, dead people—I don’t know,” said a resident who witnessed the incident.
Although details remain unclear, reports suggest that Congolese militia groups opposed to M23 may have launched the attack. Several rebels are feared dead or injured in what could be a major setback for the group, which has been struggling to gain legitimacy in the region.
Despite their attempts to portray control by reopening schools and ports, M23 now faces significant resistance from local armed groups and civilians who reject their rule. The sudden outbreak of violence highlights the deep-seated instability in eastern Congo, where rebel factions continue to clash over territory.
Security analysts warn that such incidents could further escalate tensions, making it difficult for M23 to maintain its grip on occupied areas. As uncertainty looms, the people of Bukavu remain caught in the crossfire, unsure of what the future holds amid the ongoing conflict.