The MNF has had its ups and downs. While it won 25 seats out of 40 in its electoral debut in 1987, it lost power in 1989. Laldenga passed away in 1990. The MNF lost the 1993 polls too, but it bounced back in 1998, winning 33 seats in alliance with the Mizo People’s Conference. In 2003, it retained power on its own, winning 23 seats out of 40.