Angola has a multi-party system, with several political parties competing for power. The most prominent party is the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has been in power since the country's independence in 1975. The MPLA is followed by the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), the main opposition party, which has a significant historical presence and was involved in a long civil war against the MPLA. Other political parties include the Socialist Party of Angola (PSA) and the Angolan Patriotic Alliance (APN), among others. These parties represent various ideologies and interests, contributing to the political landscape. Elections are held periodically, allowing citizens to participate in the democratic process.