Speaker Wetangula Calls For Inclusion Of People Living With Disability in Parliament
National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Moses Wetang’ula has reiterated the Kenyan Parliament’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and empowerment for persons living with disabilities (PWDs) across the nation.
Speaking on Wednesday during a meeting with members of The Kenya Disability and Parliamentary Association (K.E.D.I.P.A) and PWD Members of Parliament from both Houses at his office in Parliament Buildings, Dr. Wetang’ula affirmed the Parliament’s dedication to effecting transformative change for persons living with disabilities.
Dr. Wetang’ula emphasized that K.E.D.I.P.A, entrusted with representing PWDs, will collaborate with Parliament to champion full inclusion, equal opportunities, and the active eradication of discrimination against PWDs.
Through their advocacy efforts, K.E.D.I.P.A seeks to advance legislation and motions that address the unique needs and challenges faced by this community, ushering in a fresh approach to disability rights and support.
Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, the leader of K.E.D.I.P.And Member of Parliament for the Westlands constituency reiterated his commitment to providing PWDs with a robust voice within the Kenyan Parliament.
He stressed, “We want to go beyond merely providing a seat at the table for PWDs, but we also want to see active participation in parliamentary debates and proceedings, ensuring that the invaluable input of PWDs helps reshape the narrative around disability in Kenya.”
Speaker Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of raising awareness about disabilities throughout the country.
He noted that achieving a more inclusive society necessitates reaching not only urban centres but also remote regions such as Turkana and Mandera. He underscored that disability knows no boundaries and can affect anyone, anywhere.
“The National Assembly will give precedence to the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2023, seeking to repeal the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2003.” He said.
This legislative priority is essential to harmonize Kenyan law with the Kenyan Constitution and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, to which Kenya is a signatory.
“This move will reflect the dedication of the Kenyan Parliament to enact measures that genuinely align with the needs of the disability sector,” he stated.
Hon. Wetang’ula further expressed his support for K.E.D.I.P.A’s mission to raise awareness and drive impactful change within the disability sector.
He emphasized that disability can affect anyone and should never define a person or be a source of shame. Instead, the human spirit within each individual should always be celebrated and uplifted, regardless of any condition.
“I will support K.E.D.I.PAnA in creating awareness and making an impact in the disability sector to change the narrative in Africa where some people are ashamed of their kin if they are differently-abled, yet it can happen to anyone. The human spirit in a person should never be suppressed by any condition.” He pledged.
Dr. Wetang’ula’s commitment represents a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for all Kenyan citizens, where every voice is heard, and every individual’s worth is recognized, cherished, and celebrated.
With the Kenyan Parliament taking these strides toward disability inclusivity, the nation is poised to lead the way in championing the rights and welfare of persons living with disabilities.
The members present during this discussion included Hon. Tim Wanyonyi (Westlands), Hon. Muhia Wanjiku (Kipipiri), Hon. Emeritus Kosgei, Hon. Peter Masara (Suna West), Hon. Andrew Adipo (Karachuonyo), Hon. Charles Gimose (Hamisi), Hon. Kakai Bissau (Kiminini) and Sen. George Mbugua (Nyandarua).
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