By Burnett Munthali
As Malawi gears up for the crucial 2025 general elections, the Federation of Disability Organisations in Malawi (FEDOMA) is making a compelling call to political parties to establish dedicated directorates for persons with disabilities. This initiative aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities have a meaningful role in the decision-making processes that shape the nation.
Speaking at an event in Blantyre, FEDOMA Executive Director Simon Munde emphasized the pressing need for greater representation of people with disabilities in politics. He pointed out that many individuals in this demographic continue to have their rights violated across various sectors, particularly in the political arena, due to their lack of access to decision-making positions.
“The rights of persons with disabilities are still being violated in many sectors, including politics. This is primarily because they do not hold leadership roles where critical decisions are made,” Munde stated. His remarks resonate particularly during the month of November, which is observed as Disability Awareness Month in Malawi.
Munde underscored that active involvement in decision-making is not just a matter of rights but is crucial for creating an inclusive political environment. He argued that the best way to ensure that the concerns of persons with disabilities are addressed is to elect representatives from within their communities to leadership positions. This, he believes, would lead to more informed and sensitive governance that takes into account the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.
The call for greater representation has garnered some attention within the political landscape. Ben Chakhame, vice chairperson of the Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD), acknowledged the importance of FEDOMA’s request but noted that the CMD board will need to convene to discuss and formulate a formal response.
“While we appreciate the advocacy from FEDOMA, it is essential for us to meet as a board and deliberate on how we can effectively address this issue,” Chakhame stated. This reflects a recognition of the need for dialogue and potential action within political parties regarding the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
The push for directorates dedicated to persons with disabilities is not only about representation but also about ensuring that political platforms are more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens. As political parties prepare for the upcoming elections, integrating the voices of those who are often marginalized can enhance democratic processes and strengthen governance in Malawi.
The call to action from FEDOMA serves as a timely reminder of the importance of inclusivity in the political sphere. As the nation moves closer to the elections, it is vital that political parties take proactive steps to ensure that all citizens, including those with disabilities, have a stake in shaping the future of Malawi. The establishment of directorates for persons with disabilities would be a significant stride toward fostering a more inclusive and equitable political environment, paving the way for a more just society.
