Substantial new oil deposits were discovered in 1995 and will provide important additional revenue in the future. Serious human rights abuses continue. After some progress in 1994, the humans rights situation deteriorated in 1995. Citizens do not have the right to change their government. With few exceptions, the authorities took no action against any security force members suspected of human rights violations.
Prison conditions are life threatening.
The judicial system does not ensure due process and is subject to executive influence. The Government severely restricts freedom of speech and the press and effectively limits the right of assembly. In September municipal elections, the Government used arbitrary arrest, illegal detention, and beatings with impunity in an unsuccessful attempt to restrain active political opposition. Discrimination and violence against women are problems. The only mass media in the country are the government-owned television and radio stations.