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The Sierra Leone Union on Disability (SLUDI), the leading advocacy group for people with disabilities in the country, has publicly denounced any planned protests against President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s recent appointment of Commissioner Brima Abdulai Sheriff as Chairman and Commissioner of the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD).
SLUDI stated it has become aware of “rumors and uncoordinated plans by a handful of individuals within the disability community to stage a protest” regarding Commissioner Sheriff’s appointment. In response, the union issued a strong statement unequivocally distancing itself from any such actions.
“Let it be known publicly and emphatically that SLUDI is not part of any planned protest and will never support any act that undermines the authority and wisdom of the President, who remains the Fountain of Honour and the constitutional appointing authority,” the statement read.
SLUDI praised President Bio’s decision to appoint Commissioner Sheriff, describing it as “timely and commendable.” The union highlighted Commissioner Sheriff’s background as a “highly respected former Human Rights Commissioner with a distinguished track record of integrity, professionalism, and community service.”
The organization believes the appointment reflects a commitment to “reposition and revitalize the National Commission for Persons with Disability, which has long suffered from institutional inertia and operational stagnation.”
SLUDI also noted that while it was not consulted on the outgoing Chairman, Dr. Vandi Konneh’s appointment, it provided him with “overwhelming support.” Similarly, SLUDI has reaffirmed its full support for Commissioner Sheriff’s appointment, despite not being directly consulted, emphasizing respect for the President’s prerogative.
SLUDI issued a stern warning to those considering or inciting protests: “We strongly warn all those planning or inciting illegal protest actions in the name of the disability community: SLUDI will not protect or associate with such acts. Any person or group that engages in unauthorized actions does so in their capacity and will be held accountable under the laws of Sierra Leone.”
As the national umbrella organization, SLUDI called for “calm, respect for due process, and constructive engagement.” The union urged the disability community to focus on “strategic priorities, policy reforms, and programmatic actions to enhance inclusion, empowerment, and dignity for all persons with disabilities in Sierra Leone.”
The statement concluded with a call for collaboration: “We encourage all individuals and organizations within the disability sector to begin developing clear, coordinated advocacy agendas to share with the new leadership of the Commission. Let us work together, not against each other, in pursuit of our shared vision of a just, inclusive, and empowered society.”
