A member of the National Democratic (NDC) Communication Team, Hamza Suhuyini, has urged the government to adopt a digital system for the planned nationwide firearm re-registration exercise.
He believes an online platform would make the process more convenient for gun owners and help the government achieve its objectives more effectively.
His comments come after the Ministry of the Interior announced that all existing firearm licences in Ghana would be revoked from June 23, 2026.
Under the new policy, every firearm owner must apply for a new licence through a stricter registration process.
Suhuyini argued that the government should make better use of records already available at the Ghana Police Service.
Instead of depending entirely on a new registration exercise that requires firearm owners to appear in person, authorities could use existing databases to identify licensed gun holders and contact them directly.
He said this approach would make it easier to ensure compliance with the new regulations.
“You know the attitude in this country. The fact that people registered in the past means that if you are now calling them to come and register again, it becomes a disincentive in itself.
“Because of the hassle involved in going through another registration process, many of them may not be interested in doing so,” he stated.
Suhuyini suggested that the government create an online registration portal where firearm owners can begin the process from their homes.
Through the platform, applicants could submit photographs, serial numbers, and other required documents for verification.
“My appeal to the Minister for the Interior is to make the process simple, friendly and easy to go through,” he added.
His appeal follows the announcement by Interior Minister Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, who revealed plans to reform Ghana’s firearm licensing system.
The minister cited weaknesses in the current framework and raised concerns about the misuse of legally acquired firearms as reasons for the overhaul.
