Freedom is overrated. I'm from Indonesia. I was born and grew up under Suharto dictatorship, at that time, corruption is rife but structured. What I mean with structured is that you knew who you have to grease, and how much you need to pay and once you do that, you can get things done. You also knew what you can say and what you can't say. Basically you are free to say anything except criticizing Suharto.
When they overthrew him, and replace him with democracy, things turned chaotic. Even today, you can't get things done. Corruption is still rife, but this time it is chaotic. You think you already pay them, but there are always others coming demanding payment. A Chinese investor that my friend knew, get burned when he invested in a mining business. He thought he already got all the permits he need from the central gov. But then the local gov also demanded kickback in the form of partial ownership. When its done, he thought he could start mining. But then the locals also begin to mine near his location. When the local gov crackdown on the illegal mining, it turn into anarchy because the locals accused the gov of selling out to foreigner. The anarchy only ended when the gov closed down the Chinese owned mine. At this point, the Chinese investor had it enough and quit. You are free to speak out your opinions in today Indonesia, but nobody can guarantee your safety. Rule of law is just a joke. A lot of corrupt politicians from Suharto era are still hold power. It is like a fragmented empire, with numerous local kings. Political dynasty grew up all over the regions.