Ban on drumming takes effect May 2

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has stated that this year’s ban on drumming and noise making in the Accra Metropolis starts from Monday, May 2, 2016 to June 2, 2016.

The assembly has, therefore, put in place guidelines for observation of the ban to ensure peace, harmony and national security. 

In the past, thugs who claimed they were acting on behalf of traditional authorities had engaged in clashes with Christian worshippers at their churches, destroyed property and seized musical instruments.

In a statement copied to the Daily Graphic, the AMA listed the six guidelines as the confinement of the usual form of worship to the premises of churches/mosques and noise levels minimised to the barest limits possible. 

Also during the period of the ban, the Christian and Muslim communities, as well as the traditional authorities are required to show respect for one another and restrain their followers from making derogatory and inflammatory remarks about the beliefs and practices of one another. 

The statement, which was signed by the Metro Coordinating Director, Mr Sam Ayeh-Dartey, said the positioning of loud speakers outside the premises of churches, mosques, pubs, funerals (social gathering) was banned, while roadside evangelists were urged to cease their activities during the period. 

“All political parties and keep fit clubs are to minimise their noise levels if they embark on any outdoor activities. 

“Apart from the task force which consists of AMA personnel, the Police Service and representative from the Traditional and Christian Councils, no other person or group of persons should be seen or found enforcing the abatement of noise in the metropolis,” the statement stressed. 

The AMA also provided hotlines for anyone seeking further clarification relating to the ban on drumming and noise making. These are; 0202019136,  0202019150, 0576476841