The Ghana Society of the Physically Disabled (GSPD) has welcomed the government’s decision to allocate 5% of the 2026 national budget to persons with disabilities (PWDs). However, the organisation is strongly urging the government to channel these funds through the National Council on Persons with Disability (NCPD) to ensure transparency and prevent misuse by local assemblies.
Courage Mawuli Wormenor, National Vice President of the GSPD, emphasised that while the allocation is appreciated, the method of distribution is critical for its success.
“I strongly urge the government to channel these 5% funds through the National Council on Persons with Disability (NCPD), the state agency for disability matters and systemic inclusion,” Mr. Wormenor stated. “As the designated agency for advancing disability inclusion, the NCPD is best positioned to ensure transparent, equitable, and effective utilisation of these resources.”
Mr. Wormenor argued that just as the NCPD is entrusted with the distribution of motorised tricycles to PWDs, the allocation from the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF) should similarly be routed through the Council.
Concerns Over Mismanagement and Politicisation
The call comes amidst serious concerns regarding the handling of disability funds at the local level. Mr. Wormenor highlighted recent proceedings at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) which revealed instances of misuse and mismanagement by some assemblies.
A particularly troubling issue cited was the refusal by certain assemblies to pay backlog funds. These assemblies allegedly argue that payments should only commence from the year of the current Metropolitan, Municipal, or District Chief Executive’s (MCE) appointment, claiming that new MCEs cannot inherit existing data.
“This rationale is unacceptable, especially given the persistent delays in the release of common funds which naturally create backlogs,” Mr. Wormenor asserted.
He stressed that these backlog payments must be honoured, and beneficiaries should not suffer due to administrative or political transitions.
Furthermore, the GSPD Vice President raised concerns about the politicisation of the funds, citing reports that resources are being directed to party loyalists rather than to the rightful beneficiaries. “Such practices undermine the principles of equity, inclusion, and accountability,” he added.
Call for Consistency and Oversight
Given these systemic challenges, Mr. Wormenor emphasised the need for consistency, transparency, and stronger oversight. He believes mandating the NCPD to manage these critical funds is the solution.
“The Council possesses the requisite expertise, coordination mechanisms, and inclusive framework to ensure that resources are allocated fairly and used effectively to advance the empowerment of persons with disabilities,” he said.
Mr. Wormenor concluded with confidence that channeling the funds through the NCPD will help safeguard the integrity of the process and ensure that the resources reach their intended beneficiaries, thereby strengthening disability inclusion and promoting sustainable empowerment across the country.
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
