Editorials

EDITORIAL: Gun control plan timely

guns

Narok county commissioner George Natembeya displays firearms seized in a security operation in Trans-Mara. PHOTO | GEORGE SAYAGIE | NMG

The move to monitor and control the guns in the hands of civilians is progressive, especially in the wake of last week's terrorist attack and a general rise in gun-related crimes in recent times.

The proposed biometric card with a chip having the gun holder's details is a key aspect that will assist the government to account for all the licensed firearms, as well as check on crimes involving these weapons. However, for this to make sense, the net must be widened to register the guns in private hands in areas prone to cattle rustling.

If the rules are implemented , the government will be in a position to deal with the question of acquisition of weapons, especially of politicians and other public figures who are wont to display their guns in public spaces. Misuse of firearms, or the risk of them getting into the hands of terrorists or social misfits is a matter of grave concern that ought to be addressed before disaster strikes. Mishandling of such weapons poses a serious threat to public safety and risks compromising security.

As an additional safety measure to the biometric cards, the government should also carry out periodic assessments of the licensed gun holders, including checking on their mental health status.