Zanzibar — MEMBERS of the Zanzibar association for the deaf have appealed to the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) to ensure that their inclusion and recognition in the coming new constitution is given top priority.
"There have been calls to have clauses in the new constitution to protect people with disabilities, but it is better to cite different forms of disability including deaf and their rights," said members of the association when giving views on what should be included in the constitution.
Members of the association formerly known as 'Chama cha Viziwi Zanzibar' (CHAVIZA) said the current constitution draft has no clauses which protects the deaf, "we need our rights guaranteed in the constitution."
In the constitution forum held at Rahaleo vocational training centre in the municipality, CHAVIZA members emphasized that major improvements were required to be made before the final draft was written.
The CHAVIZA Secretary, Mr Muhammad Haji, said; "we managed to raise awareness among the deaf group about the importance of giving their views for the new constitution.
Thank God, they have participated well." Haji said that some of the rights they need include having sign language interpreters in key areas such as at hospitals and schools to enable them enjoy and access the services.
Ms Jide Khamis Saleh, a member of CHAVIZA said that the deaf have had difficulties in accessing information about the constitution because the CRC and the government failed to have sign language interpreters in public forums.
She observed that many deaf people could not participate in the constitution review process because of lack of sign language interpreters.
