We want leadership roles, PWDs tell UDA

People with disabilities in  North Eastern have appealed to the UDA party to consider them in party leadership roles ahead of grassroots polls.

Chairperson of PWDs in the region Hafid Maalim said they want to be part-and-parcel of the decision-making organs of the party.

Maalim said there were PWDs with knowledge that had not been tapped and who would add value to UDA. 

He is among those seeking to be considered for any available positions.

The party has been burning the midnight oil to ensure Phase 1 of the grassroots elections that will run from April to August 2024 go smoothly. 

“We are all aware that political parties are key players in decision-making. Therefore, it is imperative that persons with disabilities can also participate meaningfully.

"We need to defuse this notion that PWDs are incapable of taking leadership positions,” the chairperson said.

It is time for UDA to lead by example and show inclusivity by incorporating PWDs in all its activities.

“As PWDs we feel abandoned. What become of the president’s promise to incorporate us in his administration? Just the other day we saw the president appoint several individuals for ambassadorial positions. We did not feel represented at all,” he said.

The chairperson said oftentimes, PWDs are forced to depend on others, which makes them more vulnerable and destitute.

They face a myriad of challenges including lack of supportive social amenities. Despite support from the National Council for People with Disabilities, a lot still needs to be done in order to reach bigger numbers.

"And that is why we are seeking to have our very own involved in the upcoming elections by having us included in the board. I don’t think that is asking too much."

Maalim lauded President William Ruto for stabilising the country’s economy through what he termed sound policies.

“Muslims have been unable to borrow from the Hustler Fund because it was not tailored to accommodate our religious principles," he said.

"But we are optimistic that going forward, things will change for the better after the Sharia element is incorporated. PWDs will equally benefit,” he added.

In his inaugural speech, President Ruto highlighted some of the programmes he intended to roll out for PWDs. He  promised to implement affirmative action programmes. 

Such programmes, he said, will include giving preference to PWDs in terms of employment.