Deputy Party Leader of the Justice and Freedom Party (JFP), Reuben Kigame, has praised nominated Senator Crystal Asige and President William Ruto for their instrumental roles in the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025 — a transformative piece of legislation aimed at protecting and empowering persons living with disabilities in Kenya.
President Ruto officially signed the bill into law on Thursday during a ceremony held at State House, Nairobi. The law replaces the outdated Persons with Disabilities Act, Cap. 133, and introduces a rights-based approach to disability, reflecting Kenya’s commitment to inclusion, equality, and dignity for all its citizens.
Senator Crystal Asige, a vocal advocate for disability rights and herself visually impaired, sponsored the original version of the bill — the Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2023 — which was published on February 20, 2023. Her efforts have drawn widespread acclaim from disability rights organizations, political leaders, and members of the public. The new law addresses longstanding systemic barriers and creates a legal framework for equitable access to services, opportunities, and participation in public life for persons with disabilities.
Reuben Kigame, a prominent disability rights activist, gospel musician, and former presidential aspirant who is blind, hailed the development as a significant milestone in Kenya’s human rights journey.
“I want to congratulate Senator Crystal Asige for her vision, courage, and persistence in pushing for this bill. I also applaud President Ruto for listening to the voices of millions of Kenyans living with disabilities by assenting to this law,” Kigame said.
“This Act is a powerful tool for justice. It is not about charity. It is about rights, dignity, and opportunity.”
Kigame emphasized that the new law sends a clear message that persons with disabilities are not second-class citizens but equal stakeholders in Kenya’s development. He noted that for far too long, people with disabilities have faced exclusion, discrimination, and neglect in social, economic, and political spheres.
“This law gives us legal standing. Our space in governance and public service is now protected. It’s time for persons with disabilities to step up, speak out, and take their rightful place in leadership and decision-making,” he said.
He also called on parents and communities to stop hiding children with disabilities, urging them to embrace inclusion and seek support for their children’s development. “Disability is not a curse. Every child has value and potential, regardless of their abilities. We must break the stigma and create an environment where every Kenyan, including those with disabilities, can thrive,” Kigame added.
Highlighting the importance of empowerment over pity, Kigame reiterated that persons with disabilities are not seeking sympathy but access to equal opportunities in employment, education, health, and leadership. “We can contribute meaningfully to this country’s progress. All we need are doors of opportunity, not closed minds or closed systems.”
The Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, is expected to usher in comprehensive reforms, including accessible infrastructure, inclusive education, disability-friendly workplaces, and social protection measures. It also establishes enforcement mechanisms to ensure accountability from government institutions and service providers.
Disability rights groups have celebrated the law as a major victory, noting that it aligns Kenya more closely with international commitments such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
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