Security sources confirmed that Gasita left the city in the early hours of September 9, 2025.
His departure is credited with restoring a measure of calm after days of unrest. Reports suggest he was secretly escorted to Bujumbura with the assistance of his bodyguards and Burundian soldiers.
The general's flight came a day after violent protests in Uvira on September 8 that left three people dead and five others injured, according to South Kivu provincial authorities.
Demonstrators, led by Wazalendo fighters and supported by civilians, first marched to the office of Mayor Kifara Kapenda to demand Gasita's removal, accusing him of being a potential traitor. They later went to the hotel where he was staying, prompting his guards to open fire on the crowd.
Alexis Byaduniya, a Wazalendo member, said: 'His guards panicked when we delivered the message, fearing an attack on the hotel. They responded by shooting at civilians.'
President Félix Tshisekedi appointed Gasita in December 2024 to lead the 33rd Military Region, first stationed in Bukavu. He later moved to Kindu in February 2025 when M23 rebels captured the city. In September 2025, Tshisekedi assigned him to Uvira, a decision strongly opposed by Wazalendo.
Protests began on September 2 when residents learned of his arrival. Roads were blocked, daily activities halted, and demonstrators vowed to continue until Gasita was forced out.
While Wazalendo members alleged that the general is Rwandan, the Congolese army denied this, stressing that he remains Congolese and enjoys government support.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/brig-gen-gasita-flees-uvira-amid-wazalendo-pressure
