Bungoma MCAs yesterday engaged in a heated debate on whether
albinos should be considered as people living with disabilities and enjoy the privileges in the constitution.
Nominated MCA Martin Wanyonyi, who lives with albinism, questioned the Gender, Youths and Sports Committee why the Bungoma county government had not released Sh9 million allocated for people with disabilities.
Cheptais MCA Jane Chebet, who is also the deputy speaker, said: "Is it in order for Wanyonyi to refer to himself as disabled yet he is physically fit? He is not disabled. Albinism is not a disability."
The statement left the house in laughter as many MCAs supported Chebet’s statement.
However, temporary speaker Sammy Chemwei warned members against discussing the issue,
saying the constitution protects people with albinism.
The house was thrown in confusion for a few minutes as members said they want to debate the matter, which the speaker declined.
Wanyonyi, who represents people with disabilities, wanted the county government to release funds for people living with disabilities.
The county government had allocated Sh9 million for people with disabilities and each ward was expected to get Sh200,000.
