Angolan politics is primarily dominated by the People's Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), which has been in power since the country gained independence from Portugal in 1975. The MPLA is a socialist party that has maintained a strong grip on the political landscape, often facing criticism for its authoritarian practices and lack of political pluralism. The main opposition party is the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), which has historically challenged the MPLA's rule. Angola's political environment is characterized by a mix of democratic processes, such as elections, and significant state control over media and civil society, impacting the overall political freedom in the country.