Somaliland's Berbera city imposes sharia dress code on its employees

by: Horn Observer Contributor | 14 May 2024 00:27

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Somaliland's Berbera city imposes sharia dress code on its employees

BERBERA – In a move that has stirred controversy and drawn both support and criticism, the local government of Berbera, a picturesque coastal city in Somaliland, has imposed a sharia dress code on its male and female employees, as reported by K

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Berbera, known for its bustling port and idyllic Batalaale beach, attracts locals and tourists alike with its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

BERBERA – In a move that has stirred controversy and drawn both support and criticism, the local government of Berbera, a picturesque coastal city in Somaliland, has imposed a sharia dress code on its male and female employees, as reported by Kaab TV.

Under the new directive issued by the Director of Human Resources, Guled Mohamed Dahir, male employees are now prohibited from sporting hairstyles deemed ‘western’ or against Islamic principles, such as the "taalooga” style.

Additionally, tight trousers, synonymous with western fashion, are banned attire for male workers.

Female employees, meanwhile, are required to adhere to a stricter dress code. Instead of simply donning a headscarf and abaya, they must now opt for a full hijab or an umbrella-style hijab, ensuring complete coverage from head to toe.

"Wearing headscarf and abaya that showcase women’s neck and chest open is not acceptable,” the decree explained.

Fines or even dismissal

Failure to comply with these regulations may result in heavy fines or even dismissal from employment, as emphasized by the local government’s statement.

This decision marks a significant departure from previous norms in Somaliland and has sparked conversations about the balance between religious adherence and individual freedoms.

While some residents applaud the move as a step towards upholding Islamic values and traditions, others view it as an infringement on personal expression and a departure from the city’s cosmopolitan identity.

Berbera, known for its bustling port and idyllic Batalaale beach, attracts locals and tourists alike with its unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

However, the imposition of the sharia dress code highlights the complexities of navigating tradition and modernity in a rapidly changing society.

It’s worth noting that this directive applies specifically to employees of the Berbera Local Government and does not extend to the general populace. Nonetheless, its impact resonates beyond government offices, raising broader questions about the intersection of religion, governance, and individual rights in Somaliland.