PPRC Moves to Strengthen Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities

PPRC Moves to Strengthen Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities

In a significant step toward deepening democratic inclusion, the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) has launched a new drive to enhance the participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the nation’s political landscape.

The commitment was reaffirmed on Wednesday following a high-level courtesy visit led by PPRC Chairman Emmanuel Koivaya Amara, Esq., to the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD). The engagement took place at the Ministry of Social Welfare Conference Hall in New England Ville, Freetown.

Deliberations centered on establishing concrete mechanisms to integrate disability inclusion into mainstream political party structures and broader electoral processes across Sierra Leone.

The meeting brought together key governance figures, including the Minister of Social Welfare, Hon. Melrose Karminty, executive members from both commissions, ministry officials, and representatives from the press.

Addressing delegates, Chairman Amara emphasized that the role of PWDs in governance must evolve beyond passive endorsement during campaign cycles. He urged political parties to formally register PWDs as active members and integrate them into internal party machinery.

"Involvement must extend to internal decision-making and party governance,"

Amara stated, highlighting that empowering PWDs to shape policy ensures their perspectives directly inform national development and community advocacy.

Amara noted that dismantling barriers to political access for PWDs remains essential to building a truly representative, accountable, and robust democratic system in Sierra Leone.

The collaborative session forms part of a broader regulatory mandate by the PPRC and strategic partners to guarantee equal political rights and foster equitable opportunities for all citizens.

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