As an organization committed to the protection of the rights and dignity of
persons with disabilities in Ghana, the Coali+on of Concerned Persons with
Disabilities(CCPWDs) express our deep concern and disappointment regarding
recent comments made by Former President John Dramani Mahama, the
Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), when he was
commenting on the Press engagement of the Flag bearer of the New Patriotic
Party – Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana.
In a public statement, Former President Mahama reportedly remarked that Dr.
Bawumia, who typically speaks fluently, began to stammer during a media
encounter. He went further to suggest that such stammering is a sign of
dishonesty, stating that “any person who does that is a liar.”
We, the members of the CCPWDS, find these remarks to be deeply offensive and
an unfortunate misrepresentation of individuals who stammer. Stammering, also
known as stuttering, is a speech disorder that affects millions of people
worldwide, including many in Ghana. It is not a reflection of one’s honesty,
intelligence, or competence. Such comments from a prominent public figure not
only perpetuate harmful stereotypes but also reinforce negative attitudes
towards people with speech impairments and other disabilities.
Linking stammering with dishonesty perpetuates harmful stereotypes and
reinforces s+gma which does not promote inclusivity. Ghana has made
considerable strides in promoting inclusivity and protecting the rights of persons
with disabilities. We believe that public figures, especially those with the
influence of Former President Mahama, have a responsibility to uphold and
further these efforts by promoting understanding and empathy, not by making
disparaging comments.
The former President instead of telling us- people with disabilities how we are
going to benefit from his 24 hour economy policy has rather found it necessary
to denigrate and s+gma+ze persons with disabilities.
It is true that Mr. John Mahama has no record of any single policy he
implemented during his tenure as Vice President and later President of the
Republic that sought to promote the welfare of persons with disabili+es, which
we do not begrudge him but his act of gross disrespect for PWDs would not be
condoned.
We respectully call on Former President John Dramani Mahama to publicly
apologize for his comments and clarify that stammering or any form of speech
impairment does not reflect dishonesty or deceit. This apology will go a long way
in showing that he respects the dignity of all persons, including those with
disabili+es, and that he is committed to promoting a more inclusive and
understanding society.
Signed:
Elias Kadeologo
(0504784557
Robert Sampana
0262628622
Clifford Owusu-Ansah
0243309900
Jonathan York
0200336272
