The National Unity platform (NUP) has rallied People with Disabilities (PWDs) to stand up strong and fight for their rights to fully participate, equally and effectively in social economic development of the country.
The remarks were made as the party joined the rest of the world to commemorate the International Day for People with Disabilities that took place under theme; Transformative solutions for inclusive development the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world”
Uganda’s national celebrations took place last week in Kole District.
While addressing PWDs at the party headquarters in Kampala, NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine said that this group of people can contribute to the social economic development of this country when given equal grounds like the rest of the people.
“These people need us just as much as we need them. Not only helping them. While I encourage the society to embrace people with disabilities, I want to encourage you brothers and sisters with disabilities to stand up and fight for your rights because you are as good as others,” he noted.
Kyagulanyi said that it’s upon this group of people to stand strong and act such that they can be recognized by the public among those participating in political leadership positions.
“These are not just special needs; these are rights because in NUP we know the difference between equality and equity. In other countries you have special parking for people with disabilities, they have special places for people with special needs. That is what it is supposed to be, “he said.
He challenged parents and guardians not to deny children with disabilities a bright future, noting that they should instead raise awareness about the plight of these people so that they can be supported in all ways possible.
He lashed out at the government for failure to give an enabling environment to PWDs to contribute to the social and economic development of society and eradication of poverty.
“They still face many challenges including workplace discrimination, lack of proper health facilities, accessibility impediments, challenges in education among others. We renewed our manifesto commitments to their plight in all sectors, “said Kyagulanyi.
He claimed that the present regime has paid lip service to their welfare, and this must be reversed.
