Tanzania has rubbished as unfounded recent reports that President John Magufuli had banned women in the east African country from wearing miniskirts.

In a statement, Tanzania’s ministry of foreign affairs said it had noted with “serious concern” and “disapproval” reports that Magufuli had banned miniskirts.

“There is no doubt that His Excellency President Magufuli and his government are strong proponents of decent dressing, but the ministry wishes to put the record straight that the president has not issued any ban on miniskirts for any reason,” read the statement.

Kenya’s Standard media reported on Monday that Magufuli had banned miniskirts across Tanzania on the pretext that they encouraged the spread of HIV/Aids.

The ministry said while it appreciated the “enthusiastic” and “positive reviews” of president Magufuli’s performance in the media, it took “strong exception” at “irresponsible distortions” such as the one on miniskirts.

Following his sweeping victory last October, Magufuli has become an international hero due to cost-cutting measures introduced across the country.