I believe the Liberian senators and representatives were right in demanding that Mrs. Elfreda Tamba, as a top governmental functionary, be properly attired for her appearance before them.
Firstly, Mrs. Tamba, in her current capacity, is a role model, not only for young Liberian females but females in Africa and beyond. Common decency demands that that she be properly clad anytime she appears in public - no matter the forum.
The charge of sexism that Mr. Jackson levied against the senators and representatives is highly misplaced. The senators and representatives should be praised for protecting and honoring Liberian Womanhood. By their action they did not only protect Liberian women’s integrity, including Mrs. Tamba's, but showed their respect for Liberian women - a gross misrepresentation which Mrs. Tamba exhibited.
Pregnant teenager - Mr. Jackson made an interesting point here. I believe that this situation would be better served if the teenager never got pregnant at all - Although it is an impossibility this sad situation calls for concerted efforts regarding sex education ( i.e. safe sex practices, abstinence, etc) from us all - family, religious institutions and the government.
Confident and curvaceous woman in tongs or bikini - Mr. Jackson desire for such sightings are his to explain but I am sure that he would be totally against such attire been displayed anywhere else than the beach front or a swimming pool - let alone the senate floor ! I submit to Mr. Jackson that we indeed live in the 21st Century but the same science, technology and social/cultural advancements that brought so much convenience to our lives have also brought in their wake unforeseen perils.
Within a country still reeling from a devastating war where law and order is slowly catching up (cases of vicious rape are regular occurrences), one can only advise our sisters to dress appropriately and be shining examples at all times.
Maybe a few interesting facts might be of use to Mr. Jackson regarding dress codes. The US White House has a dress code - now business casual, The NBA has introduced a dress code, a suit and tie or ''African-inspired dress" is compulsory for male Members of Parliament in Kenya, and anything less would cause an MP to be thrown out of the house. Senators in Nigeria recently proposed a Dress Code Bill that would be binding on ALL Nigerians to stem the tide of scanty dressing in public . . . to name a few.
The Liberian senators and representatives are NOT misogynists. Their action displayed common sense and a penchant for decency !
Lastly, remember Mr. Jackson, modesty has always been a VIRTUE !
Benjamin Kofa Fyneah
Gainesville, Florida
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