Written by Frankline Bwire
2012-08-15 14:39:00
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Chairman of the Kenya Union of the Blibnd Western region Alex Ekirapa[PHOTO|Frankline Bwire|WestFm]
Disabled persons have called on the government to give them consideration to nominate their own representative and not political parties as the country heads towards the fourth coming General Election.
The Chairman of the Kenya Union of the Blind (KUB) Western region Alex Ekirapa said political parties, do not understand issues affecting people with disabilities on the ground and hence cannot cater for their needs.
“We should be given our own boxes to choose persons of our interests and who will protect us from victimization and not anybody nominated by politicians who have their own interests,” he said, while briefing journalists during the Busia County Forum.
Ekirapa added that there is need for people with disability to be appeased through putting in place mechanisms that will ensure equal participation in the coming elections without biasness.
Accessibility issue
He challenged the government to ensure new facilities being established countrywide are environmental friendly to persons with disabilities, considering that it is their constitutional right in the new constitution.
“All infrastructures should be made disability friendly including the roads a move that should also be adhered to by the councils and private institutions,” he said.
The KUB chairman also demanded that they be provided with resources to access new technology in voting through Braille voting card to ensure secret voting.
Local residents who spoke to West FM said there is need for the government to conduct civic education for the disabled persons to exercise their interests in the country especially in the coming elections.
“They should be sensitized to make them understand their rights before the elections and to ensure they make wise decisions,” said Monica Mung’ala a local resident, adding that they need to enjoy their human rights and fundamental freedom.
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