GOOD press statement by Suzette Little,
GOOD: City of Cape Town Councillor & Caucus Chairperson
28 April 2022
The City of Cape Town has reneged on its promise to amend its by-law and exempt the Muslim Call to Prayer and Church Bells from the City’s definition of noise nuisance.
The City promised to amend the by-law following a public outcry three years ago when a noise disturbance complaint was lodged against the 100-year-old Zeenatul Mosque in District Six.
Four weeks ago, after it became clear that the City did not intend to fulfil its promise, GOOD submitted a motion containing the necessary amendments.
Instead of demonstrating the political maturity and leadership to finally settle the matter, the City today sought to wriggle out of its commitment by leaving the by-law intact but updating its standard operating procedures.
The Call to Prayer will remain on the books as a source of noise nuisance, but “designated officials much ensure sensitivity and care in consulting a place of worship on any regulatory noise abatement measures”, the City said.
Cape Town is not a monarchy. There is no place in law for the idea that by-laws remain on the books but, by some kind of mayoral decree, need not necessarily be enforced.
The travesty of referring to religious practise as a noise nuisance must be removed from the books altogether.
GOOD will continue championing the change to the by-law, and further undertakes to introduce a separate motion dealing with those parts of the by-law which victimise homeless people.
Media enquiries:
Suzette Little, GOOD: City of Cape Town Councillor
Cell: 073 321 5036
Email: suzettel@forgood.org.za
Samkelo Mgobozi, GOOD: Media Manager
Cell: 079 231 5977 (whatsapp) / 082 968 4021 (calls)
Email: samm@forgood.org.za