Political parties, other than Iran's ruling party, which was disbanded in 1987, are illegal in Iran. The Turkmen, despite their desire for autonomy do not have an independent illegal political or military organization. Turkmen activists tend to become members of Iran's other opposition parties and organizations. Turkmania, until this point in time part of the USSR, declares itself independent and eventually renames itself Turkmenistan. Turkmen activists attend an opposition congress held in territory held by Iraqi Kurds in Northern Iraq.
Reformers gain a majority of seats in first round polls.
Conservative parliamentarians in Iran's Islamic consultative Assembly lost more seats in the run off elections held on April 19. Khatami promised in the campaign to reduce censorship and support a diversity of attitudes. Conservatives dominate election to the council of experts when many of the reformist candidates were disqualified. The situation of the Turkmen remains unchanged since 1989. Their desires for autonomy and to speak their language are still repressed.