Persons living with disabilities in Kericho County are demanding the immediate enactment of the County Disability Bill, lamenting that the bill has not been assented to, several months after being passed by the County Assembly.
Their representative, Joseph Muge, said the bill would enable persons with disabilities to access education and various opportunities with ease.
“We are wondering why this important bill has not been signed into law yet. Once enacted, it will open doors for us to access opportunities and services without unnecessary struggles,” said Muge.
Speaking in Kericho town, Muge lamented that despite the Constitution guaranteeing the rights of persons with disabilities, they continue to face neglect and exclusion from key decision-making processes.
According to him, the implementation of the bill would also mark a major milestone in promoting inclusion and equality.
“Our rights are clearly outlined in the Constitution, yet we are constantly sidelined. We want this to change,” he said.
He also criticized political parties for overlooking people with disabilities during nominations, vowing that the group would organize and field its own candidates in the next general elections.
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“We will no longer beg for political representation. Come the next elections, we shall raise and support our own candidates,” Muge declared.
The group further urged the government to promote local manufacturing of assistive equipment, saying many persons with disabilities are forced to travel long distances and spend heavily to acquire necessary devices.
“We appeal for the establishment of local production units for assistive devices to make them more affordable and accessible,” added one of the members.
The Kericho County Disability Bill, sponsored by Hon. Eric Bett Watchman, the Deputy Speaker and MCA for Kipchebor Ward, was tabled in the County Assembly ten months ago but is yet to receive the Governor’s assent.
The group is now urging the county leadership to fast-track the signing of the bill to ensure that persons with disabilities in Kericho enjoy equal rights and opportunities as other residents.
The proposed legislation also requires learning institutions and public facilities to install ramps and other accessibility features to support students and individuals with special needs.
“The time to act is now. This bill is not just about disability—it’s about dignity and equal opportunity for all,” Muge emphasized.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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