Baringo, Kenya| Baringo County Governor Benjamin Cheboi has issued a stern warning to individuals exploiting persons living with disabilities (PLWDs) for personal gain.
The governor raised concerns over a growing trend where unscrupulous individuals masquerade as assistants to PLWDs, only to take advantage of them for financial and business benefits.
Cheboi made the remarks on Friday while presiding over a five-kilometer charity walk organized by Kabarnet School for Deafblind Children.
He expressed disappointment over cases where individuals use the names of PLWDs to fraudulently access government tenders and loans, depriving the rightful beneficiaries of their opportunities.
“It is unfortunate that some people are taking advantage of persons with disabilities by using their names to apply for loans and tenders,” Governor Cheboi stated.
“If someone approaches you asking for your personal details to access benefits meant for PLWDs, do not agree unless they make you a signatory. This way, you are assured of benefiting from whatever they are pursuing in your name.”
Call for Fair Representation and Equal Opportunities
The governor emphasized that PLWDs have a constitutional right to equal opportunities in employment, both in government and private organizations.
He urged the National and County Public Service Commissions to uphold integrity and ensure that PLWDs are not sidelined during recruitment processes.
“All public and private institutions must adhere to the law by ensuring persons with disabilities get their rightful share of employment,” Cheboi asserted. “They should be treated with dignity and fairness, just like everyone else.”
Additionally, he encouraged PLWDs to actively apply for job opportunities whenever they arise, noting that self-reliance through employment would empower them to support their families and improve their quality of life.
Leaders Rally Behind PLWDs’ Rights
The charity event was attended by several local leaders, including Baringo Central Member of Parliament Joshua Kandie and County Assembly Speaker Vincent Kemboi.
The leaders echoed Governor Cheboi’s sentiments and pledged their support in championing the rights of PLWDs.
The walk was aimed at raising awareness about the challenges faced by deafblind children and mobilizing resources to support their education and welfare.
Governor Cheboi reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting persons with disabilities, vowing to crack down on those who exploit them.
“We will not tolerate individuals who take advantage of vulnerable members of our society for selfish interests,” he concluded.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the need for inclusivity, respect, and fairness for PLWDs in all aspects of society.
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