To return briefly to the Kenyan example, the degree of power exerted by these social forces is evident in the state’s reaction. Kuria reports that all private associations save the Law Society of Kenya and the Church have had their autonomy removed. He cites the “deregistration” of social welfare organizations, trade unions, farmer associations, public companies, and cooperatives. Public meetings are allowed by permit only at the discretion of the government. Government officials have banned press vehicles, interrupted lawyer/client consultations, and subjected representatives of these groups to ridicule, intimidation, torture, and detention without trial.17