There was great suspicion that Momoh was not serious, however, and APC rule was increasingly marked by abuses of power. In November 1993, the NPRC announced a timetable which calls for debate on and adoption of a new constitution, and general elections in late-1995. Most civil rights are respected. A critical press continues to operate, though the government has intervened with individual editors in response to alleged inaccuracies. Press guidelines enacted early in 1994 impose heavy new financial burdens on publishers, and may serve to reduce the number of newspapers being published.
Political parties remain suspended.
The judicial system continues to function for civil cases. It is comprised of a supreme court, court of appeal and a high court of justice with judges appointed by the head of state. The basic unit of local government generally is the paramount chief and council elders. There is also an elected council and mayor in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, and Makeni. The three provinces each have a resident minister.