Activists call out political parties for excluding disabled people
Disability rights groups want political parties to make measurable commitments to inclusion before voters head to the polls on 4 November.
Political parties in South Africa are accused of continuing to exclude disabled individuals as the nation approaches elections, claims Disabled People South Africa (DPSA) Chair Patrick Mahlakoane. The organization is deeply distressed by the marginalization of disabled people, which threatens the country's democracy and goes against the principles of equality enshrined in its constitution.
Mahlakoane cites Section 9 of the constitution, which emphasizes equal rights, protection, and benefit for all, and demands a national dialogue with political parties to ensure commitments to the rights and development of disabled people. Analyst Theo Neethling warns that disability advocacy groups have consistently criticized political parties for marginalizing disabled people, who make up seven percent of the population, from leadership roles and political representation.
Despite promises of improved welfare during elections, disabled citizens are often forgotten, and their concerns are not addressed in party manifestos.
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