As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, People with Disabilities (PWDs) have urged the Electoral Commission and security agencies to ensure fairness, safety, and equal treatment for all citizens particularly those from vulnerable groups--throughout the electoral process.
The appeal was made during a press briefing held at Show Abilities Uganda headquarters in Kampala, where disability rights advocates expressed growing concern over the continued marginalisation and mistreatment of PWDs during national exercises such as elections.
According to a 2024 baseline survey conducted by Show Abilities Uganda, participation of persons with disabilities in past elections remains alarmingly low.
The findings indicate that only 24% of PWDs participated in elections for PWD representatives, while just 30% took part in youth elections.
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The report attributes this low turnout to several barriers, including lack of national identification cards, inaccessible polling information, and limited public awareness on electoral rights among PWDs.
Wadda Douglas, one of the leaders at Show Abilities Uganda, noted that many PWDs continue to experience mistreatment and discrimination by some security personnel, particularly during public gatherings and voting exercises.
He emphasised that many people with disabilities face communication barriers--such as speech or hearing impairments--that make it difficult for them to express themselves when confronted by law enforcement officers.
"We have received reports of security officers mishandling PWDs simply because they cannot communicate quickly or clearly," Wadda said.
"We are calling on all agencies to exercise patience, empathy, and professionalism when engaging with persons with disabilities, especially during the election period."
In their appeal to the Electoral Commission, PWDs demanded the deployment of sign language interpreters and the provision of accessible polling materials--including braille ballots, ramps, and clear signage--at every polling station to guarantee inclusivity and independence for all voters.
Other participants at the event echoed similar concerns, emphasising that accessibility, fair representation, and respect must be prioritised throughout the entire electoral process--from voter registration to results declaration.
They also urged political parties to include disability-inclusive policies in their campaign agendas.
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"True democracy is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens," one participant remarked. "PWDs deserve not just sympathy, but genuine inclusion and equal opportunity to participate in shaping the country's leadership."
The call comes at a crucial time as the nation gears up for the nomination of Members of Parliament, scheduled for tomorrow and Thursday, while presidential campaigns continue across the country.
With less than a year to the polls, disability rights advocates are urging the government, the Electoral Commission, and all stakeholders to take concrete steps toward building an inclusive electoral environment where every citizen--regardless of ability can exercise their democratic right without fear, discrimination, or obstruction.
