In a sombre and powerful speech to the Congolese nation, the President of the republic, His Excellency Joseph Kabila Kabange said that, his first thoughts go first to those who, at this festive moment, endure suffering in their flesh in various health centres and retirement homes; And to those among our loved ones who have left us in various circumstances throughout the year, especially those of our compatriots who have fallen on various fields of honor, protecting the territorial integrity, peace and national sovereignty, So that our country will survive as an independent state in the concert of nations.