Political rights of persons with disability in the Zimbabwean media

Abstract

Background: Political rights are crucial for all individuals, especially marginalised groups such as people with disabilities (PWDs). The Constitution of Zimbabwe specifically reserves two seats in the Senate for PWDs. While this is commendable, the current political climate in Zimbabwe does not sufficiently address PWDs’ political inclusion, necessitating further action.

Objectives: This study aimed to firstly describe diverging definitions of disability and highlight that persons with visual and hearing impairments are excluded from the media, thus affecting their political engagement. Secondly, to build upon this assertion and elucidate the necessity of enhancing media access for PWDs to improve their political engagement.

Method: A qualitative document-based methodology was utilised.

Results: People with visual and hearing impairments face considerable barriers in accessing media content during and following electoral processes, effectively constraining their political participation.

Conclusion: Political parties should ensure the inclusion of sign language interpreters during election campaigns and provide their manifestos in Braille to enhance media accessibility by people with visual and hearing impairments. Additionally, the integration of sign language and Braille into educational curricula may foster more effective political engagement through various media channels for PWDs. Furthermore, training journalists in sign language and Braille may improve their communication for people with visual and hearing impairments.

Contribution: This study reveals significant challenges encountered by PWDs in accessing media, which exposes barriers to their political participation. To address these obstacles to accessing media, practical solutions are proposed that may improve the representation of PWDs in political roles.