PRESS STATEMENT
ATT: ALL MEDIA
15 May 2020
AL JAMA-AH CALLS ON COCT TO POSTPONE PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ON BY-LAWS
The AL JAMA-AH is calling on the City of Cape Town (COCT) to extend the Public Participation process on proposed new amendments to its streets, public places and the prevention of noise nuisances by-law for public comment. We are saying that majority of people will not be able to access the public participation process due to the COVID-19 Lockdown Regulations.
The party is also demanding that the DA-lead COCT give a full explanation on the word, “Noise” and that it should exclude the Muslim call to prayer. COCT has given a deadline by 17 May 2020 for the public’s comments on the proposed new amendments to its by-laws. This has caused an uproar amongst religious communities and the public. AL JAMA-AH also appealed to councillors to propose that places zoned for the purpose of worship to be excluded from the list.
The current by-law (B) stipulate that announcements/call to prayer/entertainment played over loudspeakers must not last for more than 7 minutes above the threshold of decibels.
The Inspection should only be carried out by bona fide peace officers appointed by the city and such law enforcement officers should only enter the place complaint about, with a warrant. No law enforcement officers should be allowed to enter any place of worship without the following the required procedures. This is to prevent the proposed by-law from being abused and the victimisation of certain residents, individuals, businesses and places of worship. Any searching of property and questioning of individuals should be done with a warrant.
AL JAMA-AH is also against instructions from any law enforcement officers for people to leave the premises. There must be a proper investigation and proof be on hand (in the form of a report where the decibels of the loudspeakers have been recorded over a period of 21 working days).
Issued by:
FARIED ACHMAT (AL JAMA-AH Councillor, City of Cape Town)
Cell: 073 177 7120