Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, has tasked newly elected Local Government chairmen and councillors on ensuring inclusivity in the governance of their areas.
A statement signed by the JONAPWD State Chairman, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, congratulated the new Council leaders on their election victories, urging them to prioritise inclusivity in their governance approach. They also urged them to use their new positions to foster equitable representation for all members of the society.
JONAPWD called on council leaders to ensure the appointment of persons with disabilities as Special Assistants on disability matters at the local government level, stressing that their inclusion will enhance the policymaking process by ensuring that their specific needs are accommodated and addressed.
The group emphasised that such appointments would not only support equity and justice but also empower the disabled community by giving them a platform to contribute to local governance.
It referenced the Anambra State Disability Rights Law of 2018, particularly Section 52, Subsection 1, which it said calls for the full participation of persons with disabilities in politics and public life without discrimination.
“This is an important step in creating inclusive communities, and we believe that by leveraging the leadership of the newly elected chairmen and councilors, positive changes will be made towards building accessible local governments across Anambra State.”
Expressing optimism, the Chairman pledged the association’s full support to the new local government leaders, stating their readiness to collaborate on initiatives that promote inclusivity and equal representation in governance.
