CONFIDENTIAL
BENIN, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF
Report by British High Commission, Lagos.
Right No.
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
Although imprisonments without trial as such are not publicised political instability from time to time enables the government to round-up unsympathetic elements. Offenders are usually summarily tried and convicted by a military tribunal without the benefit of a defence counsel.
There is no clear evidence that torture is practised although it might be used to deal with "con- spirators" imprisoned during the purges of anti-revolutionaries; but there are known incidents of degrading treatment.
There is no evidence of slavery. It would in any case be precluded by the political doctrines in force under the present regime.
The media are all state-owned and controlled and form a prime means of public indoctrination. (Radios must be kept switched on at all public places, restaurants, clubs etc.) Anti-revolutionary speech is treasonable and there have been arbitrary arrests.
Rating suggested by Post
5
3
о
8
(v)
The judiciary comprises mainly mili- tary tribunals and civilian magis- trates who are party members, and are, therefore, purely political functionaries.
6
(vi)
Since the introduction of Marxist/ Leninism the trade union organisation, which is large, has been made to toe the party line and follow government doctrines.
8
(vii)
In practice it is difficult for the Beninese Government to stop Beninese from leaving the country. Many Beninese in the professional classes
CONFIDENTIAL
/live
8
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.