The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has warned political parties, supporters, and the general public ahead of the Akwatia Constituency by-elections, declaring the polls a “no-go area for any form of weapon.”

The Commission cautioned against the display or use of firearms, tasers, pepper spray, knives, machetes, or any other object capable of causing harm, stressing that anyone found with a weapon will be arrested and prosecuted.

“Ghana’s democracy has come a long way and remains a beacon of peace and stability in the sub-region,” NACSA stated.

“But politically motivated violence, fueled by inflammatory rhetoric and the unlawful possession of firearms, has the potential to destroy this peace and stability.”

Executive Secretary of NACSA, Dr. Adam A. A. Bonaa, reminded political leaders that such conduct not only breaches the law but undermines the very foundation of Ghana’s democratic process.

He urged parties to set a positive example by encouraging their supporters to express their choices peacefully and lawfully.

“The use of arms or threats of violence must never be tolerated as a means of gaining political advantage,” Dr. Bonaa stressed.

NACSA reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Ghana Police Service, the Electoral Commission, National Security Council, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to ensure a peaceful election.

The Commission called on all political actors and citizens to put peace first and safeguard Ghana’s democracy before, during, and after the Akwatia by-elections.