Power suit of democracy often requires no necktie
James Morrison THE WA****NGTON TIMES
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Democracy has no dress code, according to some reformers in the Muslim
world.
Many Muslim men in the Middle East and South Asia cut da****ng figures
in their flowing robes and headgear.
Even the British diplomat T.E. Lawrence looked cool - at least as
played by Peter O'Toole in the movie "Lawrence of Arabia" - as he
raced on the backs of camels across the hot desert dunes.
More recently, a vice president of Afghanistan during a visit to The
Wa****ngton Times made a curious remark about Western men in suits and
Muslim men who prefer more traditional dress.
"Democracy is not just for you in suits and ties," said Mohammad Karim
Khalil, who wore a dark suit but no tie, as he spoke with editors and
re****ters.
All other men in the room, including the vice president's entourage,
came buttoned up in standard business dress.
In Wa****ngton, many if not most Muslim businessmen and diplomats opt
for Western business attire.
Prince Bandar bin Sultan, for example, was noted for his silk neckties
by Hermes and tailor-made suits from London's Savile Row during his 22
years as ambassador from Saudi Arabia, the homeland of Islam.
The necktie, nevertheless, remains problematic for many devout
Muslims.
"A colleague suggests that a necktie is a sign of the Christian
cross," an unidentified Muslim asks on the Web site pakistanlink.com.
"Therefore, a Muslim should avoid wearing it. Is there any truth in
this?"
http://www.wa****ngtontimes.com/news/2008/may/27/power-suit-of-democracy-often-requires-n-39120741/
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