The introduction of perestroika and glasnost policies by Mikhail Gorbachev, last president of the USSR led to a series of political and economic upheavals that led to the unraveling of the political and economic system in place and greater influence by actors outside the Communist Party.

After the failed August coup against Gorbachev in 1991, the republican authorities proclaimed independence and set presidential elections on November 24, which was won by communist leader Rahmon Nabiyev in disputed circumstances.

Mass strikes and major demonstrations then resumed throughout the country, demanding the resignation of the government and President Nabiyev.

The government responded by arming militias and quelling the demonstrators with guns and tanks, sparking more clashes.

The unrest spiraled out of control, with a particular clash in Khujand, Tajikistan's second-largest city, sparking the 5 year long Tajikistani Civil War.