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HYDERABAD, Dec 21 (APP): Abid Lashari, President of the National Disability & Development Forum (NDF) Pakistan, has emphasized that the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in politics and parliament is not only a social necessity but also an internationally recognised human right.
Speaking on the issue of political participation of persons with disabilities, Mr. Lashari stated that inclusive political systems are essential for true democracy. “Persons with disabilities constitute a significant portion of the population, yet they remain largely excluded from decision-making processes. Their meaningful participation at all levels of politics — local, provincial, and national — must be recognised and ensured,” he said.
He highlighted that Pakistan is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which clearly guarantees the right of persons with disabilities to participate fully and effectively in political and public life, including the right to vote, contest elections, and hold public office on an equal basis with others.
Mr. Lashari stressed that political parties must play a proactive role by providing accessible party structures, allocating party tickets, and promoting leadership of persons with disabilities. He added that parliament must also ensure disability-inclusive legislation, accessible parliamentary procedures, and representation mechanisms for persons with disabilities.
“The voices of persons with disabilities are critical in shaping inclusive policies related to education, health, employment, social protection, and accessibility. Without their representation in politics and parliament, policies remain incomplete and disconnected from ground realities,” he remarked.
He urged the Election Commission of Pakistan, political parties, lawmakers, and state institutions to take concrete steps to remove physical, legal, and attitudinal barriers that hinder the political participation of persons with disabilities.
Mr. Abid Lashari concluded by saying that a truly democratic and inclusive Pakistan can only be achieved when persons with disabilities are recognised as active political actors, not passive beneficiaries, and are given equal opportunities to lead, represent, and decide.