A deadly mortar attack struck an AFC/M23 rally in Bukavu, killing at least 11 and injuring more than 60 civilians shortly after leader Corneille Nangaa addressed supporters.
The attack comes as the M23 rebel group, allied with Nangaa's Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), has seized control of key eastern cities, including Bukavu and Goma, escalating tensions in the region.
The assault occurred moments after Nangaa vowed to install new leadership in South Kivu within days.
As mortar shells exploded near the gathering, panic spread, with survivors fleeing while the wounded were rushed to hospitals.
It remains unclear where the mortars were fired from. However, M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa blamed the Congolese government, calling the attack an assassination attempt on Nangaa.
He also condemned Kinshasa’s ongoing airstrikes in South Kivu, accusing the government of indiscriminate violence.
However, the Congolese authorities have blamed a "foreign army" - hinting at Rwanda - and vowed to intensify military operations against M23, which now controls both Bukavu and Goma.
With Bukavu and Goma now under M23 control, the rebel group’s latest advances mark a significant shift in the conflict, raising fears of further instability.
Security has been tightened in the city as investigations into the attack continue.