Women flogged for wearing trousers in Sudan
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Police in Sudan arrested 13 women in a raid on a cafe and flogged 10 of them in public for wearing trousers in violation of the country's strict Islamic law, one of those arrested said today.
The 13 women were at a cafe in the capital, Khartoum, when they were detained on Friday by officers from the public order police, which enforces the implementation of Sharia law in public places.
The force randomly enforces an alcohol ban and often scolds young men and women mingling in public.
One of those arrested on Friday, journalist Lubna Hussein, said she is challenging the charges, which can be punishable by up to 40 lashes.
"I didn't do anything wrong," Ms Hussein said.
Islamic Sharia law has been strictly implemented in Sudan since the ruling party came to power in a 1989 military coup.
Public order cases usually involve quick summary trials with sentences carried out shortly afterward, as was the case with 10 of the women arrested on Friday. They were flogged and fined 250 Sudanese pounds (£74).
Ms Hussein and two other women chose to go to trial. Today she was summoned for questioning and now awaits a decision from the prosecutor on when the case could go to trial.
Women in northern Sudan, particularly in Khartoum, dress in traditional outfits that include a shawl over their head and shoulder. Western dress is uncommon.
Ms Hussein said she decided to speak out because flogging is a practice many women endure in silence. She even sent printed invitations to the press and public figures to attend her expected trial.
"Let the people see for themselves. It is not only my issue," she said. "This is retribution to thousands of girls who are facing flogging for the last 20 years because of wearing trousers," she said. "They prefer to remain silent."
Taken from the Belfast Telegraph
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments