The Day of the Martyrs of Independence is observed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on January 4. This national holiday commemorates the hundreds of people who died during a peaceful march in 1959 against Belgian colonialism, where demonstrators were shot by Belgian security forces. The event shocked both Congo and Belgium, leading to the announcement of full independence for Congo by King Baudouin of Belgium and the Belgian government just nine days later. The anniversary is considered a significant turning point in Congo's journey towards independence, marking the beginning of a lengthy transition that included provincial elections in December 1959 and national elections in 1960 and 1961. Today, the day is recognized as Martyrs' Day, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the country's freedom.