malawi president: women should be free to wear what they want
Malawi President: Women Should Be Free to Wear What They Want
by Miranda Perry
In Malawi, violent conservatives have recently been attacking women and stripping them on the streets. The victims have been singled out for wearing “nontraditional dress” – in this case, pants.
Last week, President Bingu wa Mutharika condemned the attacks in a national radio broadcast. “I will not allow anyone to … go on the streets and start undressing women and girls wearing trousers, because that is illegal,” he said, according to the BBC.
“You are free to wear what you want,” the President added. “Women who want to wear trousers should do so, as you will be protected from thugs, vendors and terrorists.”
Malawian Police reportedly arrested several street vendors believed responsible for the attacks, which have occurred in the cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre. Activists and women’s rights groups have planned protests and other events across the southern African nation.
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