Not long after declaring Gambia an Islamic State, President Yahya Jammeh has ordered all female civil servants in the country to cover their hair during working hours.
No reasons were given for the new rule except that all fame staff are expected to adhere.
A few weeks ago, President Jammeh announced that Gambia would become an Islamic republic due to its majority Muslim population and a desire to break from its colonial past.
In a memo leaked to the local press, the government gave the order saying “All heads of departments and agencies are urgently advised to implement this directive and bring it to the attention of their female staff.”
During the declaration at the a political rally, Jammeh said ‘In line with the country’s religious identity and values, I proclaim Gambia as an Islamic state.
“Gambia cannot afford to continue the colonial legacy, We will be an Islamic state that would respect the rights of all citizens and non-citizens.”