Farouk Kibet calls for all nomination slots to be reserved for persons with disabilities
By Mabonga Makhanu, September 13, 2025President William Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, has suggested that all nomination slots be reserved for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
Speaking during a fundraiser in support of PWDs on Friday, September 13, 2025, Kibet stated that no nomination slot should be given to individuals who are not living with disabilities.
He added that if PWDs are nominated and given an opportunity to sit in Parliament, they will be able to formulate laws that directly benefit their community, noting that only a few PWDs manage to enter Parliament through election on the ballot.
“Mimi nataka sheria iwekwe kwamba nomination yote Kenya iwe ni senator, iwe ni mbunge, iwe ni MCAs, hakuna mtu mwenye afya mzuri anafaa kupatiwa nomination. Tupatie walemavu Kenya mzima,” he said.
Kibet further urged Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe to table a motion in Parliament to enact this into law, expressing confidence that the motion would sail through.
He also added that these nomination slots should apply at all levels of parliament: the National Assembly, Senate, and County Assembly.
“Kwa sababu hawa walemavu wakipata hizi nafasi watapata nafasi kushughulikia mambo yao, wakiwa bunge, naona mbunge hapa Innocent Mugabe upeleke hi mswada bungeni haitaanguka,” he stated.
Reactions by PWDS
This suggestion by Farouk Kibet was backed by Kakamega County disability caucus treasurer Susan Erina.
“Many of us cannot afford nomination fees, yet we can raise important issues affecting our community. Additional slots would give us the chance to push bills that favour people with disabilities,” she said.
Susan Erina continued to express her fury over how PWDS are treated in the area, saying that they are subjected to paying taxes despite them being exempted by law.
“In places like Navakholo, Mumias East, and Mumias West, county officials have harassed traders and confiscated their goods, insisting exemptions do not apply,” she said.
Kibet had also wanted PWDs to be exempted from paying taxes on imported vehicles and other commodities, although this provision is already entrenched into law.
“All those who wake up every day to hustle should be exempted from taxation. This is not charity; it is justice,” he said.