People with disabilities discuss their rights

People with disabilities are searching for more advocates in society to help them exercise their full rights. The demand was expressed on Friday, during a two-day general meeting organized by the federation of people with disabilities (FENAPH), in conjunction with human rights organizations.

Monday, March 15, 2010

People with disabilities are searching for more advocates in society to help them exercise their full rights.

The demand was expressed on Friday, during a two-day general meeting organized by the federation of people with disabilities (FENAPH), in conjunction with human rights organizations.

The meeting, that brought together representatives of people living with disabilities in districts and parliament was aimed at educating the representatives on how they can exercise their rights and laws protecting them.

The meeting also discusses persistent issues that still prevent people with disabilities from fully exercising their rights in public service.

In an interview with The New Times, the president of the FENAPH, Severin Rwamucyo, thanked the government for restoring the rights of people with disabilities, giving an example of their seat in parliament.

However, Rwamucyo said there is need for more advocates to fight existing issues that still hinder access to their full rights.

"Some people still discriminate against people with disabilities especially when a disabled person is looking for employment,” Rwamucyo said.

"We need more advocates, right from the grass roots, so that people know the laws and rights of people with disabilities”.

The meeting also called for government to drop taxes on vehicles of people with disabilities.

Ends