Introduction

Abstract

A coalition is hurriedly put together to contest the first free election of a new democracy. Although its components come from distinct ideological traditions, they agree on the principal questions of the day, and are able to present a united front. The coalition occupies the ‘centre ground’, attracting large numbers of uncommitted voters and placing itself in a pivotal position in the political system. The coalition wins the election and forms a minority government, which includes ministers from the previous, undemocratic, regime. The transformation of the coalition into a party is agreed, and an organisational structure is established. The government implements its programme with cross-party support, then dissolves parliament and is returned to power, although again as a minority government. The party also emerges as the most powerful force at municipal level in the first free local elections.