Malawi to Outlaw Farting

The government of Malawi is about to enact a law making it illegal to “foul the air” in public, the Daily Mail reports. Yes, farting will be one of many behaviors outlawed by new legislation that will set up “Local Courts” around the country. These courts will be able to punish such serious violations as impersonating a fortune teller, insulting the modesty of a woman, challenging someone to a duel, or trespassing on a burial place.

The law is supposed to “mold responsible and disciplined citizens.” But many in the country are skeptical. “My goodness. What happens in a public place where a group is gathered?” asked one Malawian. “Do they lock up half a minibus? And how about at meetings where it is difficult to pinpoint ‘culprits’?” May we suggest the time-honored "he who smelt it" method? (More Malawi stories.)