NATIONAL
Kato Gabriel Maguru has set his sights on championing the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) as he picks nomination forms for the Central Executive Committee (CEC) and the Member of parliament for the people with disabilities ahead of the National Resistance Movement party elections.
Speaking to our reporter after securing his nomination forms, Kato emphasized the urgent need to streamline policies affecting PWDs, particularly addressing leadership selection processes that he believes undermine inclusivity.
Currently, disability councils at the district level are appointed by the Local Council V (LCV) chairpersons, while the national council leadership is chosen by the responsible minister. Kato argues that this system is flawed, insisting that people with disabilities deserve the right to elect their own leaders, just as youth and elder councils do.
“If we are equal citizens, then we must have the power to determine our own leadership,” Kato stated. “Disability leaders should be chosen by the disability fraternity, not appointed by external authorities.”
Kato has vowed to push for an amendment to the Disability Act 2020 to rectify these inconsistencies and ensure a fairer representation structure for PWDs. He believes that empowering disability leaders through democratic selection will strengthen advocacy efforts and enhance inclusive policymaking. He also vowed to engage government to reduce on taxes levid on devices used by the PDWs or even procure them and distribute at no cost.
His bid for CEC comes amid growing calls for reforms in governance structures affecting marginalized communities. With the nomination process underway, Kato aims to rally support from the disability community and stakeholders committed to fostering equal representation.
The NRM party elections are expected to be closely contested, with various aspirants presenting their visions for leadership and governance improvement. As Kato positions himself as a champion for disability rights, his pledge to reform leadership structures could shape the discourse around inclusion and equity within the party and beyond.
