The Coalition of Concerned Persons with Disabilities (CCPWDs), an organization committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in Ghana, has expressed deep concern and disappointment over recent comments made by former President John Dramani Mahama, the Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The comments were made during Mahama’s critique of a press engagement by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of Ghana and Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Mahama reportedly remarked that Dr. Bawumia, known for his articulate speaking, began to stammer during the media interaction, implying that stammering is a sign of dishonesty, and suggesting that “any person who does that is a liar.”
The CCPWDs have condemned these remarks as deeply offensive and a harmful misrepresentation of individuals who stammer.
They emphasized that stammering, also known as stuttering, is a speech disorder affecting millions of people worldwide, including many in Ghana, and has no connection to a person’s honesty, intelligence, or competence.
The coalition expressed concern that such statements from a prominent public figure perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce negative attitudes toward people with speech impairments and other disabilities.
“Linking stammering with dishonesty perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces stigma, which does not promote inclusivity,” the CCPWDs stated.
The group highlighted Ghana’s significant progress in promoting inclusivity and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
They emphasized that public figures, especially influential ones like Former President Mahama, have a responsibility to support these efforts by fostering understanding and empathy, rather than making disparaging comments.
The coalition also criticized Mahama for focusing on what they see as derogatory remarks about people with disabilities, instead of addressing how his proposed 24-hour economy policy would benefit them.
They pointed out that during his tenure as Vice President and later as President, Mahama did not implement policies aimed at promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities, but they are particularly concerned about what they perceive as his current disrespect.
The CCPWDs have called on Former President John Dramani Mahama to issue a public apology for his comments and to clarify that stammering or any form of speech impairment does not equate to dishonesty or deceit.
They believe such an apology would demonstrate his respect for the dignity of all individuals, including those with disabilities, and his commitment to fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com | Vivian Adu
