Each of the member republics was represented by 20 members in the Federal National Assembly, elected amongst the members of its People's Assembly.[1][4] Members were elected on four year mandates.[3] Members elected had to resign from their mandates in their republican parliaments.[3] The Federal National Assembly met twice a year, opening its inaugural session on March 12, 1972 and holding its last session in October 1975.[1][5] The sessions lasted for three months.[3]