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Petition for Muir street mosque draws widespread support

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An online petition started in support of the athaan to be broadcasted over the loudspeakers at the Zeenatul Islam masjid in Muir street in District Six has garnered more than 40 000 signatures in 48 hours. The petition was started by Kyle Hicks for South Africans to stand in solidarity with the mosque, after a complaint was lodged with SAPS over the athaan. The complainant cited the athaan as a “noise nuisance”.

According to the Environmental Conservation act in the Western Cape Regulations Act – the City of Cape Town is legally compelled to investigate the complaint if it is reported to the police. In a positive move, the City has indicated it will start the process to amend the Street, Public Places and the Prevention of Noise Nuisances by-law – in order to protect religious spaces from being subjected to these laws.

The petition states Cape Town is a “beautiful and colourful diverse city with people from all over and all religions and cultures” – and this unique tradition must be preserved. The right for the mosque to sound out the call to prayer has received overwhelming support from people outside of the Islamic faith, with many saying they found deep spiritual connection to the athaan and that it is an integral part of Cape Town’s culture.

“Our Muslim brothers and sisters are being targeted during the month of Ramadan by having the Athaan complained about and attacked to possibly have it silenced and removed,” he said.

“We should show them all our love and support as a universal family and take a stand against it! Islam has been in SA for hundreds of years – more specifically the Zeenatul Islam Mosque in Muir Street in District Six. This is unacceptable. We all reserve the right – in a democratic country – to practise our faith and cultures how we wish.”

To sign the petition, click here:

https://www.change.org/p/city-of-cape-town-save-the-athaan-cptmosques?recruiter=960637635&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_initial&utm_medium=whatsapp&utm_content=washarecopy_15491339_en-GB%3Av4&recruited_by_id=d6cbbb40-76cd-11e9-8199-09ced1eb6a37


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2 comments

  1. The azaan is part of our daily prayers. Our constitution allows for religious tolerance so why the objection. Complain about the crime in this country which is more of a pressing issue.

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