SECURITY:Arms Commission worried over incidence of gun violence

The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons has noted with grave concern the recent incidence of gun violence reported in the media.

According to them “the growing impact of Small Arms in the country especially as we approach the election is worrying and must not be ignored by all peace loving Ghanaians”.

To them, carrying of weapons to social gathering including registration centres is totally inexcusable thereby urging Ghanaians particularly the youth to eschew such practices.

“It is critical for all to soberly reflect on the bizarre experiences of nearby countries in the recent past which were once peaceful nations but were plunged into chaos and anarchy as a result of small arms proliferation and electoral challenges. In one of the countries, it is estimated that the conflict cost the country one million deaths while 200,000 persons were internally displaced. This is a cost that Ghana should not and cannot afford to pay,” they implied.

This was contained in a press release signed by the Executive Secretary for the commission, Jones Borteye Applerh.

The Commission further calls on leaders of political parties to prevail upon their supporters to desist from resorting to the use of guns to settle political disputes at the least provocation.

Although the commission has pledged to collaborate with the police as well as other security agencies to ensure peaceful elections, it is however calling on stakeholders such as civil society organizations and international development partners to join forces with the commission to make Ghana a “safe haven” before, during and after the 2012 elections.

Godwin Allotey Akweiteh/Ghanadistricts.com