Member of Parliament for Prestea-Huni Valley, Robert Wisdom Cudjoe, has raised concern over the rising use of live ammunition during traditional festivals, warning that a cherished part of national identity is being turned into a public safety threat.
He said while gunfire has long been part of Ghana’s cultural displays, the increasing use of live bullets instead of blank or ceremonial rounds is putting lives at risk and must be checked immediately.
Presenting a statement on the floor of the House he reminded the House that festivals such as Bugum Chugu, Feok, Odwira, Hogbetsotso, and Homowo were originally meant to promote unity, honor ancestors, and celebrate Ghanaian heritage.
Yet what should be moments of joy and cultural pride are increasingly marked by fear, injury, and death.
He called for stricter law enforcement, stronger collaboration with traditional authorities, and urgent legal reforms by the Ministry of the Interior to prevent further tragedies and restore safety to cultural celebrations.
