Nairobi: Persons with disabilities have been urged to actively participate in politics and vie for elective positions in the run-up to the 2027 general election. Speaking during a sensitization forum in Kajiado, Assistant Registrar of Political Parties Agatha Wahome highlighted the critical role that persons with disabilities play in society and emphasized the need for their integration into political party structures and democratic processes.
According to Kenya News Agency, Wahome explained that the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) is implementing nationwide sensitization programmes targeting special interest groups, including persons with disabilities, women, and youth. This initiative aims to enhance participation in political and electoral processes ahead of the 2027 General Election. Wahome acknowledged that gaps in the official registration of some persons with disabilities hinder their inclusion in structured political systems, limiting access to party opportunities and support mechanisms.
Halima Shariff, a person with disability and aspirant, pointed out the significant challenges faced by PWDs in their bid for elective seats, such as financial constraints, stigma, and limited access to political networks. She noted that the high cost of campaigns often excludes many qualified aspirants with disabilities, forcing some to rely on party nominations rather than competing directly for elective positions. The forum provided participants with knowledge on party structures, nomination procedures, and methods for more active engagement in political processes.
Wycliffe Ombuki emphasized the importance of registration with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), stating that registration is essential for accessing affirmative action benefits, including party nominations and empowerment programmes. Proper registration enhances the visibility of PWDs within political party and government systems, improving their chances of inclusion in leadership and decision-making spaces.
Kajiado IEBC County Elections Manager Festus Mucheke confirmed that preparations for the 2027 General Election are on course, with ongoing voter registration and transfer exercises at constituency offices across the country. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission is ensuring that all eligible voters are captured in the register and facilitated to update or transfer their details ahead of the polls.
The ORPP sensitization exercise is part of a broader national programme aimed at strengthening political party governance and promoting inclusive democratic participation ahead of the 2027 General Election. These forums are being conducted simultaneously in 13 other counties, forming part of a nationwide capacity-building initiative targeting political party officials and stakeholders to enhance governance, compliance, and electoral preparedness ahead of the polls.
