By Chidimma Ajemba :
The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, has congratulated the newly elected local government area chairmen and councillors on their successful elections. The association, which advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities, called on the newly appointed leaders to prioritize inclusivity in their governance approach.
In a press release signed by the JONAPWD State Chairman, Comr. Ugochukwu Ernest C. Okeke, the association acknowledged the hard-earned trust the citizens of Anambra placed in the newly elected officials, urging them to use their new positions to foster equitable representation for all members of society.
A key request made by JONAPWD Anambra is for the appointment of persons with disabilities as Special Assistants on disability matters at the local government level.
According to the organization, including disabled persons in governance will enhance the policymaking process by ensuring that their specific needs are addressed and considered.
They emphasized 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.
The association referenced the Anambra State Disability Rights Law of 2018, Section 52, Subsection 1, which 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 councillors, positive changes will be made towards building accessible local governments across Anambra State,” said Comr. Okeke.
They further expressed optimism about the future and pledged their full support to the new local government leaders, stating their readiness to collaborate on initiatives that promote inclusivity and equal representation in governance.
The association’s call is a crucial move to ensure the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are given due attention in the new administration in the 21 local government areas of the state.
- Ajemba is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *