Politics of Brunei

With Britain in charge of military and international affairs, Brunei attained self-government in 1959 and complete independence in January 1984 as a result of the 1979 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation.

[4] Since 1962, Brunei has had a state of emergency that is renewed every two years, during which time the Sultan retains absolute authority.

[2] In October 1986, he appointed additional ministers for finance and home affairs, expanding the cabinet to eleven members.

[3] About half of monarchic dictators suffer serious consequences such as death and imprisonment, Brunei is lauded as one of the most stable dictatorships.

[7] Due to high oil revenue, Brunei has been able to provide extensive social services to its population, including free education and health care.

[8] Welfare provision is a strong method for the Bruneian regime to exercise nonviolent political control, as citizens are reliant on the state both for employment and social services.

[9] Brunei’s exhaustive provision of welfare raises the cost of protest and constitutes a means to maintain credible commitment.

[10] Brunei derives regime stability and legitimacy from a combination of welfare and religious authority through the national philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja.

[15] In addition to developing and distributing working documents to the Cabinet Ministers' Council members, the primary duty is to advise the Sultan on matters of national administration, including policy approval.

[16] The Legislative Council (Malay: Majlis Mesyuarat Negera) is empowered by the constitution to create laws, oversee budgets, and voice objections to actions taken by the executive branch.

[17] The appointed Legislative Council questions and answers with government representatives and formally approves the state budget, while having no independent authority.

[19] The lack of national elections in Brunei limits legitimate political involvement and keeps opposition forces from rising to prominence, allowing the Sultan to retain his position of power.

Social movements offer restricted channels for contesting unpopular policies; yet, racial and religious minorities have little chances to get involved in politics, even locally.