With weeks counting down to the September 16 deadline for the national gun amnesty, Police Minister Sir John Pundari has warned political candidates, their supporters and accomplices against using illegal firearms during the 2027 National General Election.
Sir John says police will be on the ground to protect what he describes as “the people’s election”, stressing that the election belongs to citizens and not politicians or candidates.
“Police operation in the elections will be this. We respect, we consider it as a people’s election, not a candidate’s election” said Sir John Pundari
He warned candidates against disrupting the electoral process, saying police would be working to ensure the election remains peaceful and fair.
“Candidates must not disrupt peaceful elections because it is not your election; it is the people’s election,” he said.
“We will be out to protect the people’s election, to make sure that it is peaceful and fair.”
Sir John says the RPNGC, together with other members of the security forces, will operate independently and respect the rights of every citizen throughout the election.
“ensuring that we operate independently and fairly and respect to every citizen’s right in this country,” he said.
The Police Minister has issued a strong warning to anyone planning to use illegal firearms to influence or disrupt the election.
“And therefore be assured, be assured, you will be enemy number one if you want to win the election with an illegal gun,” Sir John said.
He extended the warning to those who may assist or support candidates involved in the use of illegal firearms.
“Accomplices, supporters, including candidates. So surrender your gun, and don’t be tempted by it to think that you will use it at the time of elections,” he said.
The minister says police will rely on technology and intelligence to identify and respond to threats during the election period.
“We will use technology. We will use information. It will be intelligence-driven,” Sir John said.
The RPNGC’s 2027 election security strategy will focus on maintaining police neutrality, supporting safe and lawful elections, warning disruptors and criminals, and countering misinformation, rumours and election-related tensions.
Specially trained police personnel are also being deployed nationwide to support polling, counting and declarations, with security operations coordinated with the Electoral Commission and provincial authorities.
Sir John says community leaders, churches and youth groups will also have an important role in maintaining peace.
The minister has urged candidates and their supporters to respect the democratic process and allow citizens to exercise their right to vote freely.
“We want to ensure free and fair elections for all our people, and we will all do the right thing,” Sir John said.
