Turkmenistan bans housepets in favor of flowers

[Rob E Dangerously]

http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2003/07/...7179203869.html

 

President puts dahlias before dogs

July 6 2003

By Anton Lomov

Ashkhabad

 

 

 

 

 

Residents of the Turkmen capital Ashkhabad are at a loss to know what to do with their animals after the announcement of a ban on most pets so they do no overpower the sweet smell of dahlias named after the president.

 

All livestock will be banned from the city, and each household will be allowed only one "cat or dog or decorative bird", following a decision by President Saparmurat Niyazov to beautify the capital with a new variety of dahlia named "President Turkmenbashi" (father of the Turkmens).

 

"I bought this camel when my grandchildren were born so that she'd provide them with milk. It's much tastier and healthier than what you get in the shops," said a resident who gave his name as Ogulkurban. "She's my pet and I could never eat her. We'll have to take her to relatives in the countryside if necessary."

 

Nina, 65, said she would eat her five chickens if worst came to worst.

 

(....)

 

Few dare to openly criticise Niyazov, an eccentric autocrat who has ordered golden statues and images of himself to be placed throughout the city since having himself proclaimed president for life in 1999.

 

Some residents hoped they could find a way around the pet ban despite the enthusiasm of Ashkhabad's police for similar bans including on smoking in public places or while driving, both punishable by a fine equal to the $A44 monthly minimum wage.

 

Dumbass Turkmenbashi

[Guest kkktookmybabyaway]

Glad I'm not there with my three cats...

[Guest The Czech Republic]

This really puts Turkmenistan on the map.

[Guest The Old Me]

So that's how I can justify getting rid of the step daughters cat.

[Guest Bannable Offense]

Few dare to openly criticise Niyazov, an eccentric autocrat who has ordered golden statues and images of himself to be placed throughout the city since having himself proclaimed president for life in 1999.

 

Wow...somebody needs a good shot to the kneecaps.