The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has cautioned political actors, party leaders, and the public to refrain from carrying any form of weapon during the upcoming Akwatia by-election, warning that offenders will face immediate arrest and prosecution.

In a statement issued on Sunday, August 24, NACSA stressed that both lethal and non-lethal weapons — including firearms, improvised weapons, tasers, pepper spray, knives, and machetes — pose a threat to peace and stability if deployed in the electoral process.

“Anyone found with any form of weapon will be promptly arrested and prosecuted,” the statement read.

The Commission expressed concern over politically motivated violence often fueled by inflammatory rhetoric and the unlawful possession of firearms during elections, cautioning that such acts undermine Ghana’s democracy.

NACSA urged politicians and party leaders to set an example by encouraging their supporters to express their political choices peacefully and lawfully, insisting that “the use of arms or threats of violence must never be tolerated as a means of gaining political advantage.”

The Commission reaffirmed its collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, the Electoral Commission, the National Security Council, civil society organisations, and other partners to monitor the polls and ensure a safe process.

It also called on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and prioritise peace before, during, and after the Akwatia by-election.