Welcome to the 21st Century
Only 14 years after they were liberated by American-led forces, our ally Kuwait…gives women the vote. The Chicago Tribune reports:
KUWAIT CITY — Parliament extended political rights to Kuwaiti women Monday, but religious fundamentalists who opposed women’s suffrage succeeded in attaching a clause requiring future female politicians and voters to abide by Islamic law.
The Telegraph adds:
But an ambiguous condition written into the law explicitly demanded that female candidates and voters abide by Islamic law. Critics said it was unconstitutional to make such a demand of women without making it of men.
May I suggest that this should really be titled “Welcome to the 20th Century”.
Okay, so now you thought you’d care about kuwaiti women and their interests?!!
So 14 years is a long time after 14 centuries? It is simply refreshing to hear that there is a debate – Fouad Ajami is thrilled that the ice dam of thought is breaking in the Arab world.
I used to have high regards for this blog. Not any more. Sick hearts never heal!
Stuart, when did your mother acquire the right to vote? 50 years ago? 100 years ago?? still proud of yourself?
what do you mean by “after 14 centuries”? are you alluding to the age of Islam? if yes, let me tell you this: May God forgive you and show you the way.
I don’t know about Stuart, but my mom (hi mom!) has always had the right to vote, living as she does in a mostly civilized country. My great-grandmothers, on the other hand, did not, and the world was a poorer place for it.