Thirteen candidates vying for one seat to represent persons with disabilities in the chamber of deputies have pledged to advocate for inclusivity and more than one seat in parliament so that they can be represented by both genders.

While kick-starting their campaign at city hall in Kigali, on July 2, each of them was given 10 minutes to campaign in front of the Electoral College.

The Electoral College electing lawmakers representing individuals with disabilities consists of the Executive Committee members of the National Council of People with Disabilities (NCPD) at the district, provincial, and national levels, as well as coordinators in each sector.

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Gato Damien, one of the candidates, said that if elected in the July 14-15 parliamentary polls, he will advocate for financial inclusion for people with disabilities and fight for inclusion to be at least 15 percent in the quarter system.

"I will fight for the convenience of doing business for those with disabilities, push for making it easier for them to find employment, and collaborate with other lawmakers to make it simpler for them to purchase prosthetics and replacement components in the healthcare industry,” Gato added.

Another contender, Justine Kayiraba, promised to collaborate closely with other members of parliament to supervise ongoing government initiatives and guarantee that people with disabilities are included to ensure that they benefit from and contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.

"Given the chance to run for parliament, women with disabilities are capable as well. As such, we need inclusivity in all spheres of life because nobody should be left behind and because we are capable as well,” Kayiraba stated.

Kananga Richard, another candidate, said he is committed to remove barriers in education for persons with disabilities, including advocating for sign language to be taught in all schools, establishing a trust fund for individuals with disabilities, and protecting women who give birth to disabled children.

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People with disabilities, like other special interest groups - women and the youth - will vote for their candidate on July 16.

Their campaign will continue in Rwamagana District, on July 3, then on July 8 in Musanze District, Rubavu on July 9, and Karongi on July 10.

They will go to Rusizi and Nyamasheke districts on July 11 and conclude in Nyanza District on July 12.