Rights of Youth and Disability (RYD) International has reprimanded the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for its “consistent” disregard and insensitivity towards persons with disabilities and former President John Agyekum Kufuor.
The organization cited several instances of contempt and disrespect displayed by NDC members and assigns. For instance, Sam George’s comment on Ivor Greenstreet, saying he “Apparently Needs Some Elevation to see the Better Ghana,” and Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini’s and Bagbin’s comments on appointing ministers with disabilities.
According to Yazid Adam, a PWD-Activist and representative of RYD International, “Disability is not a taboo, nor a curse… but a human condition.”
He emphasized that the NDC’s actions demonstrate a profound misunderstanding of disability, perpetuating harmful attitudes and stigma.
RYD International also expressed disappointment in the NDC’s response to recent attacks on former President Kufuor.
The party’s national communication officer described the comments as “unfortunate,” “unsavoury and distasteful,” which RYD International deemed insufficient.
The organization urged the NDC to recognize the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities, acknowledging they represent 8% of Ghana’s population, approximately 2,098,138 individuals, according to the 2021 Population and Housing Census report.
RYD International emphasized sections 4(1) and 37(1) of the Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715), which prohibit discrimination, exploitation, and derogatory language against persons with disabilities.
“We pray that as an octogenarian, former President Kufuor stays mentally alert and active… to engage the nation and the youth to share knowledge, wisdom and experience to guide us into the far advancing digital world,” the RYD stated.
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