THE HISTORY OF UCP
In Algeria, multipartism was born out of difficult circumstances. The country was deeply entrenched in a severe socio-economic and political crisis when the historic protests of October 1988 managed to compel the authorities to abandon the single-party system and transition to multipartism. In 1988, following numerous reforms, including a revision of the constitution, Algeria officially adopted multipartism. From 1989 onwards, a multitude of political parties emerged. Some of these « democratic » political groups aimed to establish a genuine democracy in Algeria.
During the 20 years of the ousted President Abdelaziz Bouteflika’s rule, multipartism had practically disappeared. A political closure reminiscent of the era of the single-party system was established. The majority of political parties, led by the « presidential alliance, » were merely symbolic entities, automatically supporting without hesitation or debate all decisions made by the deposed head of state, who remained in power for 20 years. The revolutions known as the « Arab Spring » had stirred things up. The Algerian people, like other peoples, yearned for freedom, dignity, and democracy. Power alternation was and remains the only solution to break free from the endemic crisis in which Algeria has been entrenched.
The explosive situation and the regional context threatened the occurrence of sociopolitical unrest, which forced the government to make concessions: the creation of new parties became possible once again.
This opportunity motivated a handful of patriots, committed to building a better Algeria where the principles of equality, respect, meritocracy, and power alternation are upheld, to initiate the procedures for the creation of the Union for Change and Progress (UCP). Led by Ms. Zoubida Assoul, a former magistrate and former official at the Ministry of Justice, the party successfully obtained its approval in 2013.
The goals, objectives, and principles of our political party naturally make it a quintessential democratic party.
The popular hirak of February 22, 2019, expressed its desire for profound change. The protesters demanded a change in the governance system rather than simply a change in leadership. This change can only occur through the involvement of each and every individual and the concerted efforts of all actors in civil society.
The union of our forces and efforts into a viable and unifying political project, founded on the principles of Algerian society with its immense cultural diversity, is essential to achieving the desired and long-awaited change that leads to progress. Our party listens to its grassroots members and citizens.
Join the party! Let us unite! Let us bring about change! Let us progress!
