Thursday, March 28, 2024

State House Clarifies Security Protocol on Women and Handbags

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In response to concerns raised by the Non-Governmental Gender Organisation’s Coordinating Council (NGOCC), State House Chief Communication Specialist, Clayson Hamasaka, clarified the security protocol regarding women carrying handbags during state functions. Hamasaka’s statement aimed to address the issue and provide necessary clarifications on the matter.

With all due respect to NGOCC, Hamasaka emphasized that no woman has ever been prevented from entering State House solely due to carrying a handbag. He further stated that there have been no additional security measures implemented at State House under the current administration. In fact, Hamasaka suggested that the security rules have been relaxed compared to previous practices.

Hamasaka shed light on the procedures followed at the entrance of State House, explaining that they involve routine screening of items, including handbags, similar to security protocols observed in other restricted areas like airports. The purpose of this screening is to ensure the safety and security of all individuals present within State House. If the scanning machines detect an item that may be deemed suspicious, the person carrying the bag is respectfully asked to step aside for a physical inspection, which is conducted in their presence.

In such cases, Hamasaka assured that female security personnel assist women, while male personnel assist men, to uphold privacy and ensure comfort during the inspection process. However, he emphasized that citizens who decline to have their bags screened, whether handbags or briefcases, forfeit their right to enter State House.

The purpose of these security measures, according to Hamasaka, is to maintain a safe and secure environment within State House, without targeting or singling out any specific group. The security protocols are designed to be consistent and applicable to all individuals entering the premises.

NGOCC recently voiced its concerns over incidents where women were barred from accessing State House during a commemorative event due to the lack of storage facilities for their handbags. NGOCC Chairperson Grace Sinkamba argued that this restriction infringed upon the rights of women and the girl child.

The organization expressed that handbags are an essential part of a woman’s attire, representing their right to self-expression and privacy. Additionally, Sinkamba highlighted that handbags often contain items necessary for personal hygiene, which are crucial for women based on their biological makeup.

As the dialogue between NGOCC and State House unfolds, it raises broader discussions about gender equality and the need for inclusive practices within public institutions. The focus is on finding a balance between ensuring security and accommodating the rights and needs of all individuals, regardless of gender.

5 COMMENTS

  1. You are searching womens handbags and underwear and yet that arrogant f00I hh does not even reside there because he thinks he is better than all previous presidents. Pompous with money that he stole from privatisation.

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  2. You should try your best not to take anything trolls say seriously. No matter how poorly they behave, remember these people spend countless unproductive hours trying to make people mad. They’re not worth your time of the day.

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  3. Those handbags are used to stuff free food which they are offered to eat there and take it home as takeaway. Notice all the women come with larger than life handbags whenever coming for government functions where lunch is included.

  4. Those are not handbags but travel bags you can fit a weeks clothing in them…if you have a function tell them beforehand that handbags are not allowed only purses. If they can not do without them they should not attend.

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