The Deputy Director of Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Gyebi Asante, has disclosed that government is preparing to introduce a new law to regulate the possession and use of firearms in the country.
Speaking on Peace FM, Mr. Asante condemned the recent rise in festival-related violence in the Greater Accra Region, describing the growing misuse of firearms as “alarming and unacceptable.”
He expressed particular concern over the violence that erupted during the Teshie-Nungua Homowo festivities, which led to the loss of lives.
“Festivals are meant to unite us, but if we turn them into avenues to kill each other, then the purpose is lost. That is why we appealed to local authorities to ban the possession of ammunition at festivals,” Mr. Asante stressed.
The Deputy Director urged traditional authorities and the public to switch from using live bullets to gunpowder during celebratory gun firing, noting that it offers a safer alternative.
Mr. Asante further revealed that the Commission has initiated processes to enact a law specifically targeting the use of firearms during festive occasions, revealing that “The drafted bill has already been submitted to the Minister of Interior for review. We are still going through the constitutional process to get it passed,” he said.
He also cautioned against violence as a means of resolving disputes, adding “The public must understand that violence is not the right way to solve a misunderstanding. When lives are lost, they cannot be restored.”
As part of broader measures, the Commission is collaborating with the National House of Chiefs and selected Regional Houses of Chiefs to intensify education and advocacy on the dangers of celebratory gunfire.
“We are working with traditional authorities to help our security services maintain peace during festivals,” Mr. Asante disclosed.
Read Also: Mahama Removes Chief Justice Torkonoo Over Misconduct Findings
Source: Benjamin Ekow Hutchful/ATLFMNEWS
