The several small independent newspapers and weekly semiofficial newspaper freely criticize the Government, but the latter's editors are selected by the Minister of Information and are usually his allies. The government-controlled radio station, Radio Comoros, is the only station in the country following last year's closure by the Government of the only independent station. Credible sources cite the station's frequent criticism of the Government and ties to opposition politicians as the reasons for its closure. Comorians receive broadcasts from Mayotte Radio as well as from French television without interference, but these carry only limited news about Comoros developments. Satellite antennas are popular and amateur radio licenses are issued without hindrance.
Foreign newspapers are available, as are books from abroad.
Although there is no university in the Comoros, secondary level teachers and students speak freely, and students occasionally engaged in meetings which criticized the Government. The Constitution provides for freedom of assembly and association, and the Government generally respects these rights in practice. An overwhelming majority of the population is Sunni Muslim. The Constitution designates Islam as the state religion. The Government permits non-Muslims to practice their faith, and Christian missionaries work in local hospitals and schools but are not allowed to proselytize.