Before 2023, Niger had a multi-party political system, characterized by two to three dominant parties and several smaller ones that were often electorally successful enough to gain seats in the National Assembly. These smaller parties frequently formed electoral coalitions with more powerful parties, creating blocs both in government and in opposition.
However, since a military coup in 2023, Niger has been governed by a military junta led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani. In a significant escalation, all political parties were officially banned and dissolved by decree in March 2025. As a result, the country’s multi-party democratic framework has been dismantled, and political activity outside the control of the ruling junta is no longer permitted.
Party naming
Nigerien political parties are commonly known both by their acronyms and a nickname. The latter tradition began prior to independence with the Nigerien Democratic Union-Sawaba. Sawaba ("Freedom" in Hausa) became the most common name of the party. Today all large parties have an official "nickname", usually in Hausa, Djerma or other national languages, while the official party name is in French.[citation needed]
Multi-party democracy
Niger banned all opposition parties from 1959 (prior to independence) to 1991. During the First Republic (1960–1974), the PPN-RDA was the sole party. From 1987-1991, MNSD-Nassara was the only legal party. Both parties survive in somewhat altered forms.[citation needed]
Historical parties
Parties that were represented in parliament of 2021 until 2023
Coordination of Democratic Forces (CFD, Coordination des forces démocratiques): 11 party opposition coalition from 2004. Led by PNDS. Included PPN, PNA-Al'ouma, UNI, UDR-Tabbat.
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