Vituko Mitaani

If you are making noise in the city, watch out. You could be dragged to court like the proprietor of PTC Bar on Salaam Road.

Mr William Mitanda yesterday appeared before the City Hall Magistrate Court for allegedly causing excessive noise and operating a business without a valid trading licence. According to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), noise pollution is contrary to the rules 7(e) and 27 of the Local government (KCC) Maintenance of Law and Order Ordinance 2006 for the first account.

It is alleged that Mr Mitanda between December 2012 and March 2013 near Kirekaana Stage in Makindye Division played loud music using speakers. The Grade One Magistrate, Mr Julius Barore, said the suspect’s act was a noise nuisance to neighbouring communities.

Mr Peter Kaujju, the KCCA spokesperson, in an interview with the Daily Monitor, yesterday said the law was non discriminatory, adding that the authority had procured noise measuring equipments. “Regardless of who is making the noise, the law does not segregate,” Mr Kaujju said, adding that: “If we move in to enforce the law, no one will be excluded.”

Bars, churches, mosques and taxi touts could be affected should KCCA implement it. “Some people have already been charged for causing excessive noise,” he said, adding: “If you are enjoying your rights, you should not violet other people’s rights.” The KCCA spokesperson said those who intend to cause noise should seek permission.