The Coalition of Concerned Persons with Disabilities has voiced strong disapproval of recent remarks made by former President John Dramani Mahama, criticizing his linkage of stammering to dishonesty as harmful and exclusionary.
In a statement, the Coalition expressed their disappointment, highlighting that such comments perpetuate negative stereotypes and reinforce stigmas that are counterproductive to the inclusivity efforts that Ghana has worked hard to achieve. “Linking stammering with dishonesty perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces stigma, which does not promote inclusivity,” the statement read.
The group emphasized that Ghana has made significant strides in promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, and they believe public figures, especially someone with the influence of former President Mahama, should champion understanding and empathy.
The Coalition further criticized Mahama for missing an opportunity to discuss policies aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities, instead choosing to make what they described as disparaging comments. They believe that instead of denigrating them, Mahama should have outlined his plans for enhancing the well-being of this community.
In light of these remarks, the Coalition is demanding a formal apology from the former president and current flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). They argue that as a public figure and a leader, Mahama should be more sensitive in his language and actions, particularly when addressing issues that affect vulnerable groups.
The controversy stems from a recent mini-rally in Accra, where Mahama, while addressing a crowd, suggested that people who normally speak fluently begin to stammer when they are being dishonest. This comment was reportedly directed at Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who had engaged with the media earlier.
Source: GhanaFeed.Com