Mombasa chief bans miniskirts, spaghetti straps and shorts from government offices

A chief from Mombasa has banned women wearing spaghetti straps, mini-skirts and shorts from visiting government offices.

Chief Yasim Omar told residents they must uphold dignity and dress decently especially when they are seeking services at government offices.

She said clergymen and parents visit her offices for services and “it was not right for women to come exposing their breasts and thighs.”

“I serve many women but it is also improper for them to come to the office dressed in a spaghetti strap exposing their bodies,” she said.

Omar claimed as a mother and community leader, it was her responsibility to teach girls good morals.

A section of residents has threatened to storm Omar’s office accusing her of discriminating against women.

“There is a notice on her door banning certain attires. It is unconstitutional for a chief to impose a dress code on people going to seek state services,” said Andrew Mativo.

The notice reads: “Ukija ofisi ya chief vaa nguo za heshima. Yaani mavazi ya kukusitiri (dress properly when visiting the chief’s office. Attire that covers you properly).”

Kenya Muslim National Advisory Council (Kemnac) Chairman Sheikh Juma Ngao said chief Omar’s should be emulated by all other state officials in the country.

“Girls actually walk naked in the streets, which is wrong. I support her initiative,” said Ngao.

Nyali Sub-County Commissioner Harun Kamua said although Ms. Omar may have had a good intention, no one should be turned away because of her dress code.