Persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Garissa County have been encouraged to actively participate in elective politics and seek leadership positions ahead of the 2027 General Election, despite concerns over the high cost of campaigns.
The call was made during a sensitization forum organized by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) in collaboration with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). It brought together members of the disability community to discuss political inclusion and electoral participation.
ORPP North Eastern Regional Coordinator Ifrah Issa said the engagement was part of ongoing efforts to ensure marginalized groups are fully integrated into the country’s political processes.
She noted that the registrar’s office has been conducting similar forums with women, youth, political party officials, and other stakeholders to create awareness on political rights, leadership opportunities, and available affirmative action measures.
Issa emphasized that persons with disabilities have the constitutional right to participate in governance and should take advantage of opportunities within political parties, including leadership positions and party nomination processes.
IEBC Senior Elections Officer Abdi Yunis Mohamed urged members of the disability community to consider contesting any of the six elective positions available during general elections, saying disability should not be viewed as a limitation to leadership.
He said the commission remains committed to promoting inclusive elections and ensuring all citizens have equal opportunities to participate in the democratic process.
However, Garissa PWDs Chairperson Adan Bille pointed to financial constraints as one of the biggest obstacles preventing many persons with disabilities from seeking elective office.
Mr. Bille said the increasing cost of political campaigns has discouraged many capable individuals from entering the political arena, despite having the qualifications and desire to serve.
He also challenged political parties to uphold fairness and transparency during nominations, arguing that loyalty, competence, and merit should be prioritized when identifying candidates for leadership positions.
The forum forms part of broader efforts by electoral and political institutions to strengthen the participation of persons with disabilities in governance and decision-making processes ahead of the 2027 polls.
