The military withdrew from power in 1984 and has since respected civilian rule. However, secret right-wing groups linked to the military û a few members are said to be officers on active duty û have carried out terrorist attacks against the government. A 1986 law virtually blocked investigations into "disappearances," killings and torture during the dictatorship, but there is still public pressure to bring guilty officers to trial. The defense budget is low; most equipment is bought from the USA and less sophisticated weaponry from Brazil.
