CONFIDENTIAL
LIBERIA
Report by HM Embassy Monrovia
Right No.
(i)
There are no political prisoners, and charges and trials conform to codified laws.
(ii)
Police beatings sometimes occur. The position is improving.
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
There is no slavery.
Free speech is permitted but the press, while not censored and at times critical of government, are curbed (usually a talk from the President is sufficient) if they go too far in criticisms of per- sonalities in the government. Two very scurrilous publications have been suppressed on the grounds that they had not registered as required by law. The radio is government-
controlled.
The Judiciary is independent and is prepared to exercise its indepen- dence. A special Tribunal outside the Judicial system has been estab- lished to hear cases of fraud, for- gery and drug offences. Trials be- fore it are fairly heard with legal representation, but the only appeal is to the President, and there are sometimes long delays without bail in hearing cases. It has not been a success and is withering away.
There are no restrictions on joining trade unions.
(vi)
(vii)
There are no restrictions on emi- gration.
CONFIDENTIAL
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