The Founder of the Centre for Disability Entrepreneurship and Public Policy, Andrew Nii Okaikwei, has expressed disappointment that persons with disabilities (PWDs) were not included in Ghana’s special voting arrangements for the upcoming elections.

Speaking on the AM Show on Joy News on Wednesday, December 4, Mr Okaikwei emphasized the importance of free and fair elections in ensuring the right of all individuals to participate in the democratic process.

He highlighted that accessibility challenges at polling stations and other voting barriers often hinder PWDs from fully exercising their civic rights.

"Accessibility of polling stations, voting technologies, and other aspects of the process can greatly impact the ability of PWDs to vote. Barriers can be social, political, physical, or economic. Poverty and disability’s impact on voter participation is well documented," he explained.

While acknowledging that Ghana has made progress in addressing these challenges, Mr Okaikwei noted that it’s not enough.

"We’ve come far, but we could’ve done better.  Some public places are still inaccessible to PWDs, and where ramps or lifts exist, their wheelchairs often fail to meet international standards. Efforts have been made, but implementation has been lacking," he said.

He commended political parties for including policies on disability in their manifestos but stressed that promises alone are insufficient.

"The most important thing is implementation. We look forward to seeing their commitments become reality," he urged.

Reflecting on a recent dialogue between his organization and the Electoral Commission (EC), Mr Okaikwei described how including PWDs in special voting arrangements would have demonstrated Ghana’s commitment to inclusivity.

"It would’ve been fantastic and made voting easier for them. It’s about showing our commitment as a country to addressing disability issues," he remarked.

He assured that measures have been taken to assist PWDs on election day. His centre has engaged with various disability groups; including the visually impaired, hearing-impaired, and physically disabled to provide election guidelines and education.

"We have a team on the ground, particularly in areas like Awutu-Senya, to support PWDs. The EC has also assured accessibility on election day, but more could have been done," he concluded.