Dress code sparks anger in Uganda

PUBLIC servants in Uganda are outraged about strict new rules barring women from showing cleavage or their backs, having long nails, dyed hair, skirts above the knee and men wearing open shoes.

But for many in the conservative east African nation, the main concern seemed to be the cost of implementing the rules, rather than the codes themselves and that workers had not been consulted.

“Women get less pay. This directive will make women fear going to workplaces in fear of losing their jobs, because they do not have money to buy new dresses and change hairstyles,” Agnes Kunihira, the workers representative in parliament, said.

Public official Winifred Akech, 34, said she had to borrow money to cut her hair as the style she had was banned under the new directive.

“I didn’t have money to go to a salon because I had a colour tint and was forced to borrow from a friend. This is embarrassing to me,” she said.

“Secondly, I feel my right to a hairstyle of my choice is being trampled upon.”

The ministry of public service on Tuesday outlined the list of strict rules. It also said exaggerated makeup was not allowed. Men are required to wear trousers – but not too tight – jackets, a tie and closed shoes.

Repeat offenders face disciplinary action.