By Archie Boan
A group of people with disabilities staged a protest at the grounds of the Legislature due to what they termed as ‘increased hardship and neglect’.
The group, representing 57 communities, claims that a much-publicized government initiative launched in 2024 to support disabled parents and their children has largely failed to deliver on its core objectives.
According to the petitioners, the program reportedly backed by a US$5 million allocation was intended to remove disabled persons and their children from the streets by providing education, empowerment, and social support. However, they allege that aside from the payment of school fees for some children, the broader promises of empowerment and welfare have not materialized.
“We have been left to fend for ourselves,” the group said, noting that parents continue to shoulder the burden of providing school materials, food, and other basic needs for their children.
The situation, they claim, worsened in January 2026 when about 100 individuals reportedly received a one-time payment of US$120 each as “empowerment support.” Shortly after, authorities allegedly ordered disabled persons off the streets.
The group further accused law enforcement officers of harassment, claiming that some officers have been beating and arresting disabled individuals and their children in an effort to enforce the directive.
They warned that such actions not only undermine their dignity but could also pose broader security concerns if frustrations continue to mount among affected communities.
In response, the group is calling on the House to intervene and ensure accountability. Among their key demands is the enforcement of provisions under the National Commission on Disabilities Act, particularly the inclusion of qualified persons with disabilities in government employment across ministries and agencies.
They also proposed that individuals with disabilities who are unable to secure formal employment be supported through a structured monthly compensation of US$250 to enable them live independently.
Additionally, the petition urges lawmakers to summon officials of both the Gender and Justice Ministries to explain their handling of the program and the alleged treatment of disabled citizens.
Receiving the petition on behalf of the House was the Chairperson of the Committee on Claims and Petitions, Prince A. Toles, who assured the group that their concerns would be formally presented to Plenary the highest decision-making body of the Legislature for consideration.
The petitioners say they are prepared to leave the streets if the government takes concrete steps to address their concerns, but insist that continued neglect and alleged abuse will only deepen their hardship.
