Disabled Ugandans Want to Vote Independently

Uganda has made strides in increasing political representation for people with disabilities, but for many voters, access to the ballot remains out of reach. At polling stations, especially in rural areas, essential accommodations like sign language interpreters and guides are often unavailable. Ballots are not provided in Braille, forcing some voters to rely on others and compromising their independence and privacy. Many polling places are physically inaccessible, with no ramps or space for wheelchair users, making it difficult or impossible for some to enter and vote. “A person, for example, with a wheelchair cannot access and cannot have privacy,” says Muzamiru Musembya, chairperson and board member, Jinja District. “They will be just lifted like a stone to be taken where you’re supposed to vote from.”

Video edited by Taylor Blackley. Additional footage by Isaac Oboth.

Access this film with audio descriptions. Audio descriptions and editing by Taylor Blackley.