Monday, 17 March, 2025
JLAHRC engages stakeholders on bill to enhance representation of persons with disabilities
𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟑𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
The Senate Committee on Justice, Legal Affairs and Human Rights convened a meeting on with key stakeholders, including representatives from the Attorney General’s Office, the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), and the the Kenya Law to discuss the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, No. 17 of 2024, sponsored by Sen. Crystal Asige.
The Bill seeks to amend Articles 54, 97, and 98 of the Constitution to guarantee that at least five percent of members in elective and appointive positions are persons with disabilities. By removing the word “progressive” from Article 54(2), the Bill aims to ensure the immediate and full realization of this constitutional principle, addressing historical exclusion and ensuring meaningful participation in decision-making.
During the deliberations, Sen. Crystal Asige underscored the urgency of these amendments. “For too long, persons with disabilities have remained underrepresented in governance. This Bill is not about privilege; it is about fairness and fulfilling a constitutional promise that has been deferred for too long,” she stated. She emphasized that the removal of the word “progressive” would hold the government accountable for immediate implementation.
A representative from the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) supported the Bill’s objectives, stating, “Representation is not just about numbers—it is about voice, influence, and equity. Persons with disabilities have unique perspectives that must be reflected in the laws and policies that govern our country.” The commission affirmed that increasing the number of elected and appointed leaders with disabilities would ensure that legislative and policy decisions address their challenges effectively.
However, concerns were raised by a representative from the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) regarding implementation. “Political parties play a central role in nomination processes. We must ensure that the legal framework guiding party lists aligns with this proposal so that compliance is enforceable,” they noted. The ORPP emphasized the need for clear mechanisms to ensure parties fulfill their obligations in nominating persons with disabilities.
The Senate committee, led by the chair Sen. Hillary Wakili Sigei, acknowledged the critical input from stakeholders and committed to refining the Bill further to address implementation concerns. The committee will submit its recommendations within the stipulated 14-day pre-publication scrutiny period before the Bill proceeds to the next legislative stage.