The city of Cortwell is an iconic example of what happened to the Motherland after political reformations, couple of hundred years back. It used to be pretty straight-forward: there was this one fat Sultan that everyone had to respect and listen to, and if they didn't like it, they were exiled. It was less confusing. And now with all those 'political parties'...
Basically, Cortwell is now in reigns of SUOE - Socialist Union of Order & Equality. It's an organization that wants to work 'for the people', giving every citizen a fair and equal life. They'll get you a job that actually pays somewhat decently, they'll make sure you have food to put on your table. On the other hand, they will also control everything. In return for their care, they want everyone to behave properly and be thankful to the party leader. That means attending weekly ceremonies, singing hymns, worshipping the party. As if those men in the executive cabinet were gods.
And there?s no way of avoiding it. SUOE came up with their own special police forces called Militia. They are everywhere. On every street, every corner, someone is listening or watching you. Forget about freedom of speech. One bad look and you're a dead man.