By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Union on Disability Issues (SLUDI), the national umbrella body representing organizations and individuals championing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in Sierra Leone, has firmly distanced itself from rumours of a planned protest against the recent appointment of Brima Abdulai Sheriff as Chairman and Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD).
According to an official statement issued by SLUDI, the Union emphasised that it has no involvement in any such protest and strongly condemns any uncoordinated actions being orchestrated by what it described as “a handful of individuals” within the disability community. SLUDI’s leadership made it clear that it would never support any effort that undermines the constitutional authority and wisdom of His Excellency, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, who serves as the nation’s Fountain of Honour and has the constitutional mandate to make such appointments.
“The President’s decision to appoint Commissioner Sheriff is not only timely and commendable but also reflects a genuine commitment to reposition and revitalize the National Commission for Persons with Disability,” the statement reads. “This is a commission that has long struggled with institutional stagnation and operational challenges. Sheriff’s appointment signals hope for transformation and renewed focus on the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities across Sierra Leone.”
Commissioner Brima Abdulai Sheriff is a respected figure in Sierra Leone’s human rights and civil society space, having served previously as a Human Rights Commissioner. His reputation for integrity, professionalism, and community service was highlighted by SLUDI as evidence of the President’s thoughtful choice.
SLUDI was quick to remind the public that, during the appointment of the outgoing Chairman, Dr. Vandi Konneh, the Union was not consulted but nonetheless gave its full cooperation and support throughout his tenure. Similarly, SLUDI pledged to fully support Commissioner Sheriff in his new role despite not being directly involved in the appointment process.
“We respect the prerogative of the President and urge all stakeholders within the disability community to do the same,” the Union declared. “We encourage constructive engagement, patience, and unity rather than division.”
A strong warning was also issued to those allegedly planning or inciting unauthorized protest actions in the name of the disability community. SLUDI stated categorically that it would neither protect nor associate with any individual or group involved in such activities. “Anyone who chooses to engage in unauthorized or illegal protest does so in their personal capacity and will be fully responsible under the laws of Sierra Leone,” the Union warned.
As the recognized voice and leader of disability rights advocacy in the country, SLUDI called for calm across the community. The Union appealed to all persons with disabilities and related organizations to focus their energy on building a strategic advocacy framework that could be presented to the newly appointed Commissioner for consideration and implementation.
“Now is the time to focus on policy reforms, strategic priorities, and programmatic actions that will enhance inclusion, empowerment, and dignity for all persons with disabilities in Sierra Leone,” the Union urged. “We need to work together, not against each other, to realize our shared vision of a just, inclusive, and empowered society.”
SLUDI concluded by encouraging dialogue and partnership with the new leadership at the National Commission for Persons with Disability. The Union pledged to foster collaboration and support constructive initiatives aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities in the country.
The appointment of Commissioner Sheriff comes at a time when the disability sector is looking for renewed energy and clear direction. Many stakeholders have expressed optimism that under Sheriff’s leadership, longstanding issues affecting persons with disabilities, including accessibility, education, employment, and social inclusion, will receive greater attention from government and development partners alike.
As the dust settles over the appointment, SLUDI’s call for calm and unity sends a strong message to the entire disability community: progress will be achieved not through protest and division but through dialogue, planning, and collective action.
