A US$1 million disability empowerment project in Kuntorloh backed by the United Nations Development Programme is under international review following allegations of disputed land acquisition and human rights concerns, sources familiar with the review confirmed this week.
The project, launched to provide vocational training, accessible infrastructure, and support services for persons with disabilities in the area, has been flagged for scrutiny by UNDP’s oversight body after petitions were submitted by local advocacy groups and community representatives.
The complaints center on two main issues: the process through which project land was secured, and allegations that some residents were displaced without adequate consultation or compensation.
In a statement, government officials said all legal procedures for land allocation were followed and denied any wrongdoing.
“Due process was observed in line with national land laws and community engagement guidelines,” a government spokesperson said. “The government remains committed to protecting the rights of all citizens, including persons with disabilities, and to ensuring development projects are implemented transparently.”
The UNDP country office said the review was standard procedure when concerns are raised and is not an indication of guilt.
“We take all allegations regarding our programs seriously,” a UNDP representative said. “An independent review is underway to assess compliance with UNDP’s social and environmental standards, including land tenure and community consultation requirements. The project activities have been paused pending the outcome.”
Local disability organizations have expressed mixed reactions. Some welcomed the project’s goals and urged a swift resolution so services can resume. Others said the review was necessary to ensure vulnerable communities are not overlooked in development planning.
“Persons with disabilities need these centers and opportunities,” said a representative of a Kuntorloh-based disability group. “But they must be built on justice. We cannot empower one group by sidelining another.”
The international review is expected to examine land documentation, community consultation records, and any reports of displacement. UNDP officials said findings will be made public and will determine whether the project resumes in its current form, is modified, or relocated.
Government officials maintained that the project aligns with national development priorities and international commitments on disability rights, and pledged to cooperate fully with the review.