The coalition of Concerned Persons with Disabilities (CCPWDs), which advocates for the rights and dignity of people with disabilities in Ghana, has strongly condemned recent remarks made by John Dramani Mahama, the NDC’s presidential candidate and former President of Ghana, expressing deep disappointment and concern.
Former President Mahama’s controversial remarks were made while he was criticizing Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s recent press conference, where Bawumia, also the NPP’s presidential candidate, addressed various issues.
The CCPWDs strongly denounced Mahama’s comments as hurtful and misleading, stressing that stammering is a common speech disorder that affects millions globally, including in Ghana, and has no bearing on a person’s integrity, intelligence, or capabilities.
The group worried that such remarks from a high-profile figure like Mahama perpetuate damaging stereotypes and reinforce discriminatory attitudes toward individuals with speech disabilities and other impairments.
“Linking stammering with dishonesty perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces stigma, which does not promote inclusivity,” the CCPWDs stated
The CCPWDs praised Ghana’s advancements in inclusivity and disability rights, but stressed that public figures like Mahama have a duty to promote understanding and empathy, rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
They criticized Mahama for targeting people with disabilities with derogatory comments, rather than explaining how his 24-hour economy policy would positively impact their lives.
The CCPWDs criticized Mahama for failing to support disability welfare during his time in office, and are now alarmed by his perceived disrespect.
They demand a public apology from Mahama for his hurtful comments, and want him to make it clear that speech impairments like stammering do not indicate dishonesty.
An apology, they argue, would show Mahama’s commitment to respecting the dignity of all individuals, including those with disabilities, and promoting a more inclusive society.
