CSOs raise alarm over revocation of civilian firearm licences, warn of administrative gaps in implementation

The Interior Minister recently announced the immediate revocation or suspension of all civilian firearm licences as part of efforts to tighten Ghana’s arms control regime and introduce stricter compliance requirements, including mental health screening, drug testing, and practical firearms training.

At a press briefing held at the International Press Centre in Accra on Monday, the coalition led by the Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building said it is not opposed to stricter gun control measures but strongly questions the preparedness of state institutions to carry out the directive issued by the Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak.

Civil society organisations have raised concerns over the government’s decision to revoke or suspend all existing civilian firearm licences in Ghana, warning that while the policy direction may be justified, its implementation risks creating confusion, logistical bottlenecks, and legal uncertainty.