The leadership of the Ghana Society of Physically Disabled has raised concerns about the limited involvement of its members in the District Assembly Elections, attributing the situation to financial constraints.

While some individuals with disabilities are vying for positions as assembly and unit committee members in some areas, others have opted out, citing challenges in financing their campaigns.

According to the Ghana Society of Physically Disabled, the commercialization and politicization of the electoral process have created barriers for members who cannot afford the expenses related to campaign materials like banners and posters.

Despite these challenges, Stephen Gyan, the Ashanti Regional President of the Ghana Society of Physically Disabled, stressed the importance of voters focusing on the capabilities of persons with disabilities rather than relying solely on sympathy.

“Unfortunately, the participation of my members in the elections in the region has not been encouraging. Comparing their participation in the past to this year it is disheartening because the whole process has become expensive. In the past, you didn’t have to print posters, but now, if you don’t print posters, nobody will see you.”

“Now, if you are an aspiring assembly member, you need to give out so much money, and our people are vulnerable in getting money for such ventures. Three of our members had initially decided to contest, but one of them just told me it was difficult for him to go through, so he withdrew. This is not about sympathy; we must be included to help design the structure for all because we are capable.”

In the Ashanti Region, a total of 3,919 candidates are running for assembly member positions, while 9,195 candidates are contesting for unit committee positions.