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Sub Saharan Africa
Eritrea |
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Country information
POLITICS
Isaias Afewerki was elected President by the National Assembly in 1993. The EPLF renamed itself the People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ) and has continued to run the country. They embarked upon a 4-year transitional period in preparation for national elections but political development has been arrested by the renewal of conflict with Ethiopia. A draft constitution was ratified by the National Assembly in 1997, but most of its provisions have yet to be passed into law. There is no provision for alternative political parties.
In 2001 there was criticism of the leadership within the PFJD. President Isaias responded by arresting 11 senior government figures, who are still being detained without trial. At the same time the fledgling private press was closed down and 9 journalists and numerous students detained. National elections were scheduled for 2001 but have been delayed indefinitely. Local elections were held in 2003 (village level) and 2004 (regional level).
BBC News Country Profile: Eritrea
UN Information Service - IRIN
HUMAN RIGHTS
The human rights situation in Eritrea is very poor. Detention without charge is common. Freedom of expression is severely restricted and political critics and journalists have been held for long periods. National elections have never been held and alternative political parties are not permitted. Religious freedom is also restricted: although Eritrea is a secular state only the 4 major established religions (Orthodox Christian, Muslim, Catholic and Lutherans) are able to meet freely. Smaller religious groups, especially Evangelicals and Jehovah Witnesses, face restrictions on their activities and some have been arrested.
