By Aaron Hammond 
Hawa Koomson recently shared a terrifying personal experience from the Ablekuma elections that opened fresh conversations about safety.
She recounted how carrying a simple canister of pepper spray saved her from a violent physical confrontation. Because of this close shave, the prominent politician believes that everyday citizens deserve the same legal protection. Instead of relying solely on stretched security forces, ordinary people should be able to buy and carry personal defense tools without fear of arrest.
Many citizens agree with her stance because street safety remains a major daily concern in busy neighborhoods. When danger strikes unexpectedly, waiting for police response time can feel like forever. Having a non-lethal deterrent gives vulnerable individuals a fighting chance to escape harm and run to safety. Critics, however, worry that unregulated access might lead to misuse during heated arguments or street brawls. Balancing public safety with strict regulatory controls remains the biggest hurdle for lawmakers reviewing current weapons legislation.
What the Law Says Now
Ghanaian laws currently classify certain self defense items under strict regulations that make legal ownership confusing for ordinary citizens. Police authorities often warn against carrying items that resemble prohibited weapons without proper permits or official clearance. Law enforcement agencies want to prevent criminals from exploiting loopholes that make dangerous deterrents freely accessible on the open market. Experts suggest that Parliament must create clear licensing frameworks if they decide to decriminalize pepper spray for personal use.
Public safety advocates argue that clear rules can prevent abuse while empowering citizens to protect themselves effectively. If the government sets proper guidelines on approved product types and mandatory safety training, everyone wins. Until an official policy change occurs, carrying unauthorized defense sprays technically remains a legal risk for everyday commuters. Hawa Koomson hopes her advocacy will push lawmakers to prioritize personal protection and update these outdated security laws soon.
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Source: Ghana News Page