Center for Disabilities Rights Inc.
(CEDRI)
Motto: “My Rights, Are My Dignity”
Helping people with Disabilities never doubt that they are Valuable & Powerful
Amb. Austine Moan Baryo CEDRI - Chief Executive Officer
Welcome from our Leader
Welcome to the Center for Disabilities Rights Inc. (Liberia) Website
– Providing leadership in the Disabled Community
Where advocacy and activism of all kinds, is our lifeline. We are dedicated to sharing this platform with you, creating an inclusive space where every PWDs feels safe, valued, supported, and heard. Our mission is to provide resources, support, and opportunities that empower individuals with disabilities to thrive.
Explore our opportunities, connect with our community, and discover ways to make a difference. If you have any questions or need assistance (advocacy/activism), we’re here to help. We are open to partnership, coordination, and collaboration as long as they are in the best interest of People With Disabilities.
Together, we can build an equal, diverse, accessible, and inclusive environment for all!
Email: ceo.support@cedrlr.org
Yasito I.G Dahnkuan Sr.
(Ambassador)
CEDRI Country Director – Liberia
Sarah L. Wallace
(Ambassador)
CEDRI – Assistant Directress for Administration – Liberia
Revew of our events
December 1-3, 2024 was celebrated in Ganta, Nimaba County which usually brings together people with disabilities
CEDRI 2024 Christmas Outreach
December 24, 2024, CEDRI reach out to 18 disabled persons with 18 bags of rice as their Christmas gift in ELWA, District #6, Montserrado County, Liberia, West Africa.
International Day of PWDs
December 1-3, 2024 was celebrated in Ganta, Nimaba County which usually brings together people with disabilities
International Day of PWDs
December 1-3, 2024 was celebrated in Ganta, Nimaba County which usually brings together people with disabilities
CEDRI 2025 General Report
Center for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI) 2025 Annual General Report Organizational Overview During 2025, the Center for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI) made notable progress in strengthening its institutional foundation and advancing disability rights advocacy in Liberia. In May 2025, CEDRI was officially registered with the Government of Liberia as a non-for-profit organization. This achievement formally established the institution’s legal status and enhanced its capacity to engage with government entities, partners, and development stakeholders. In the same year, CEDRI constituted its Board of Members to provide leadership, governance, and strategic oversight. The Board members are: • Dr. Julia Hartviksen • Dr. Elizabeth Mills • Akinsola Famakin • Kathryn Duckenfield • Moses Garsaynee Baryo • Austine Moan Baryo • Yasito I. G. Dahnkuan Sr. CEDRI also officially secured her office space located opposite the ELWA Hospital Junction, which serves as the organization’s administrative and coordination office. To strengthen visibility and communication, the institution officially launched its website, www.cedrlr.org, providing a platform for advocacy updates, public information, and stakeholder engagement. Advocacy, Media Engagement, and Accountability Actions In 2025, CEDRI issued one official press release addressing critical issues affecting persons with disabilities (PWDs) and calling for more inclusive opportunities and equitable access to services. CEDRI also participated in a joint press statement with the National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NOUD), the Pan African Disability Initiative (PADI), and the Union of Liberian Associations of the Deaf (ULASD). This statement condemned alleged police brutality against persons with disabilities during activities marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. In August 2025, CEDRI uncovered and documented alleged misappropriation of vacation job opportunities reportedly allocated by the Ministry of Labor to the National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NOUD). Findings indicated that the distribution of these job forms did not align with the stated objective of the program, which was intended to benefit students with disabilities. According to information documented by CEDRI: • The NOUD President, Mr. Peter B. K. Flomo, reportedly received one slot that was allegedly assigned to his son, Peter Flomo Jr. • The Vice President for Administration, Mr. Melvin Harding, reportedly received one form that was allegedly given to an individual named Tenezee. • One form was reportedly allocated to the NOUD driver, a person with no disability, despite the program being intended specifically for students with disabilities. • Three forms were reportedly allocated to persons with disabilities who were already gainfully employed: - Isaac, employed at Liberia Telecommunications Corporation - Reuben, a teacher employed by the Ministry of Education - Chris, employed at the African Methodist Episcopal University These findings were documented as part of CEDRI’s mandate to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in programs intended for persons with disabilities. Participation in Disability-Related Events During 2025, CEDRI participated in several disability-related programs and commemorative events, including: • World Wheelchair Day (March 2025) • World White Cane Day (October 2025) • International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 2025) These engagements contributed to increased awareness of disability rights issues and strengthened collaboration with disability-focused organizations. Engagement on the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) During 2025, CEDRI advocated for the release of a comprehensive report from the suspended Director, Mr. Samuel Dean, on the operations of the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD). CEDRI called for accountability and transparency regarding issues affecting persons with disabilities prior to his suspension in December 2025. CEDRI further used this medium to acknowledge and appreciate the President of the Republic of Liberia for the decision to suspend the Director. The institution also formally called on the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to conduct a full audit of the National Commission on Disabilities under Mr. Dean’s leadership and to make the audit findings public, in order to enable appropriate action by the Executive Branch. Challenges and Institutional Constraints Despite these achievements, CEDRI faced significant challenges in 2025 due to limited financial resources. Funding constraints prevented the institution from carrying out several planned advocacy interventions. One notable case involved Mr. Junior Kollie, a teacher from Gbarpolu County who reportedly worked for the Ministry of Education but had not received salary payments after several years of service. Due to limited funds, CEDRI was unable to travel and fully advocate on his behalf. There are many similar cases affecting persons with disabilities across Liberia. However, limited financial and logistical capacity restricted the institution’s ability to respond effectively to all reported cases. Funding Status and Call for Support CEDRI received no donor or grant support during the 2025 calendar year. All administrative, operational, and advocacy activities were funded entirely through contributions from the institution’s founder. CEDRI respectfully calls on donors, grant-making institutions, and development partners to support its mission. With adequate funding, the institution will be better positioned to advocate effectively for the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities throughout Liberia. 2025 Financial and Advocacy Yearly Report Expenditure Summary Date Source Purpose / Item Quantity Amount (USD) 29/04/2025 Founder’s Contribution Purchase of CEDRI registration documents from the Liberia Business Registry (Certificate of Business Registration – Non-Profit NGO & Articles of Incorporation) – 100.00 09/05/2025 Founder’s Contribution Transportation for follow-up to Liberia Business Registry (Sarah & Yasito) – 10.00 22/07/2025 Founder’s Contribution Transportation to submit CEDRI documents to the Independent National Human Rights Commission and the Ministry of Finance & Development Planning – 10.00 29/07/2025 Founder’s Contribution Press release expenses (media fees and transportation – OK FM 99.5, KOOL FM 91.9, TRUTH FM 96.1) – 65.00 16/08/2025 Founder’s Contribution Preparation of official CEDRI identification cards 2 25.00 22/08/2025 Founder’s Contribution Transportation for follow-up at Liberia Revenue Authority and Ministry of Labor – 5.50 08/12/2025 Founder’s Contribution Transportation to deliver letters to the Ministry of Labor and NOUD office – 5.50 Total Expenditure for 2025: USD 221.00 Signed and Prepared by: Center for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI)
JOINT COMMUNIQUÉ OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES DEMANDING IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION INTO POLICE BRUTALITY AGAINST PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AT THE MINISTERIAL COMPLEX Date: December 11, 2025 Issued By: National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) Centre for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI) Professional Advocates for Disabilities Inclusion (PADI) University of Liberia Association of Students with Disabilities (ULASD) COMMUNIQUÉ: TO THE INDEPEDENT NATIONAL COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS (INCHR) Attention: Cllr. Dempster Brown, Chairperson, Independent National Commission On Human Rights Subject: Urgent Call for the Independent National Commission On Human Rights to Investigate Into Police Brutality Against Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2025 Dear Cllr. Brown, We, the undersigned organizations representing persons with disabilities in Liberia, extend our highest regards to your esteemed office. We write to lodge a formal and urgent complaint regarding the egregious human rights violations committed against persons with disabilities on December 3, 2025, at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town. This troubling incident occurred shortly after the official ceremony commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a day when dignity and equality should have been upheld—not violated. Instead, persons with disabilities who had gathered peacefully and later requested transportation assistance were subjected to unprovoked violence by officers of the Liberia National Police. I. SUMMARY OF VIOLATIONS Based on the accounts of victims and witnesses, as well as visual evidence, the following actions were carried out by police officers: Deployment of teargas against unarmed persons with disabilities—many of whom have mobility, respiratory, and visual impairments that greatly increased their risk of injury. Physical assault using batons and rattans, resulting in injuries to individuals who already face physical vulnerabilities. Arbitrary arrest and detention without cause or due process. Infliction of injuries on several persons with disabilities, some requiring medical attention. These actions constitute serious violations of fundamental human rights and contradict Liberia’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)—particularly Articles 5, 10, 14, 15, 16, and 17. OUR DEMAND TO THE INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ON HUMAN RIGHTS In your mandate to safeguard human rights for all citizens, we urgently call on the Commission to: 1. Launch an Immediate, Independent Human Rights Investigation This investigation must: Identify all officers responsible for the use of excessive force Collect testimonies from victims and witnesses Document all injuries sustained Secure and review video footage and medical reports Produce a public report with findings and recommendations 2. Ensure Accountability All officers found culpable must face appropriate administrative and legal actions. 3. Recommend Systemic Reforms Including but not limited to: Mandatory human rights and disability rights training for all officers Development of protocols for respectful and lawful engagement with persons with disabilities Establishment of a permanent oversight mechanism to monitor police conduct Cllr. Brown, the events of December 3 represent a gross violation of the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities. Our community has endured systemic exclusion for years; we will not allow this incident to be ignored or minimized. We rely on your office to demonstrate leadership and uphold Liberia’s human rights commitments. Justice delayed is justice denied. We demand justice now. Respectfully yours, Peter Flomo National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) Yasito I. Dahnkuan Sr. Centre for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI) Prince Cole Professional Advocates for Disabilities Inclusion (PADI) Paekins E.T Boye University of Liberia Association of Students with Disabilities (ULASD) For Further Information, Contact: 0772577410 / 0880090683 “Nothing About Us Without Us” “Disability Rights Are Human Rights” COMMUNIQUÉ: TO THE LIBERIA NATIONAL POLICE HEADQUARTERS Attention: Inspector General Gregory O.W Coleman, Liberia National Police Date: December 11, 2025 Subject: Formal Demand for Investigation and Accountability Over Excessive Use of Force Against Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2025 Dear Inspector General Coleman, We, the undersigned civil society organizations representing persons with disabilities across Liberia, write to express our profound outrage over the excessive use of force by officers of the Liberia National Police against unarmed persons with disabilities at the Ministerial Complex on December 3, 2025. This incident—which unfolded shortly after the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—constitutes a severe violation of human rights, a betrayal of public trust, and an affront to the values of the Liberia National Police. I. INCIDENT SUMMARY Persons with disabilities who participated in the national observance peacefully requested transportation assistance due to their mobility challenges and the lateness of the hour. In place of support, they were met with: Teargas thrown at a crowd that included wheelchair users, the visually impaired, and individuals with respiratory conditions. Beatings with batons and rattans, resulting in bodily harm and trauma. Arbitrary arrest, without cause or due process. Infliction of injuries requiring medical intervention. Such actions are inconsistent with professional policing standards and violate Liberia’s obligations under the UNCRPD, as well as domestic laws. II. OUR DEMANDS TO THE LIBERIA NATIONAL POLICE 1. Immediate Internal Investigation Your office must: Identify all officers involved Determine the chain of command leading to the use of force Document all injuries Secure and review all video evidence and reports Produce a transparent report shared with the public 2. Accountability Measures Officers who abused their authority must face: Disciplinary actions Suspension or dismissal where warranted, Criminal prosecution for assault or unlawful arrest. 3. To prevent recurrence: Mandatory disability rights training for all officers, Immediate development of protocols guiding police engagement with persons with disabilities, Integration of disability rights into police academy training Inspector General Coleman, this tragic episode highlights systemic gaps in the protection and treatment of persons with disabilities by law enforcement officers. The Liberia National Police has an opportunity to rebuild trust by acting decisively and transparently. We will hold all parties accountable, nationally and internationally, should these matters not be addressed within a reasonable timeframe. We demand justice—and we expect decisive action. Respectfully yours, Peter Flomo National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) Yasito I. Dahnkuan Sr. Centre for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI) Prince Cole Professional Advocates for Disabilities Inclusion (PADI) Paekins E.T Boye University of Liberia Association of Students with Disabilities (ULASD) For Further Information, Contact: 0772577410 / 0880090683 “Nothing About Us Without Us” “Disability Rights Are Human Rights” COMMUNIQUÉ: Minister/Attorney General Cllr. Natu Oswald Tweh, Sr, Attention: Minister/Attorney General Cllr. Natu Oswald Tweh, Sr, Date: December 11, 2025 Subject: Formal Demand for Investigation and Accountability Over Excessive Use of Force Against Persons with Disabilities on December 3, 2025 Dear Minister/Attorney General Cllr. Natu Oswald Tweh, Sr, We, the undersigned civil society organizations representing persons with disabilities across Liberia, write to express our profound outrage over the excessive use of force by officers of the Liberia National Police against unarmed persons with disabilities at the Ministerial Complex on December 3, 2025. This incident—which unfolded shortly after the observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—constitutes a severe violation of human rights, a betrayal of public trust, and an affront to the values of the Liberia National Police. I. INCIDENT SUMMARY Persons with disabilities who participated in the national observance peacefully requested transportation assistance due to their mobility challenges and the lateness of the hour. In place of support, they were met with: Teargas thrown at a crowd that included wheelchair users, the visually impaired, and individuals with respiratory conditions. Beatings with batons and rattans, resulting in bodily harm and trauma. Arbitrary arrest, without cause or due process. Infliction of injuries requiring medical intervention. Such actions are inconsistent with professional policing standards and violate Liberia’s obligations under the UNCRPD, as well as domestic laws. II. OUR DEMANDS TO THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE 1. Immediate Internal Investigation Your office must: Identify all officers involved Determine the chain of command leading to the use of force Document all injuries Secure and review all video evidence and reports Produce a transparent report shared with the public 2. Accountability Measures Officers who abused their authority must face: Disciplinary actions Suspension or dismissal where warranted, Criminal prosecution for assault or unlawful arrest. 4. To prevent recurrence: Mandatory disability rights training for all officers, Immediate development of protocols guiding police engagement with persons with disabilities, Integration of disability rights into police academy training Cllr. Tweh, Sr, this tragic episode highlights systemic gaps in the protection and treatment of persons with disabilities by law enforcement officers. The Ministry of Justice has an opportunity to rebuild trust by acting decisively and transparently. We will hold all parties accountable, nationally and internationally, should these matters not be addressed within a reasonable timeframe. We demand justice—and we expect decisive action. Respectfully yours, Peter Flomo National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) Yasito I. Dahnkuan Sr. Centre for Disability Rights Inc. (CEDRI) Prince Cole Professional Advocates for Disabilities Inclusion (PADI) Paekins E.T Boye University of Liberia Association of Students with Disabilities (ULASD) For Further Information, Contact: 0772577410 / 0880090683 “Nothing About Us Without Us” “Disability Rights Are Human Rights”
Inquiry on the 2025 Ministry of Labor Vacation Jobs for PWDs
August 12, 2025 Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr. Minister of Labor Republic of Liberia Monrovia, Liberia Subject: Request of Information Honorable Minister Kruah Sr, The Centre for Disabilities Rights Inc. (CEDRI) is a disabilities based institution that squarely advocate for the rights of Persons with Disabilities in Liberia and around the world. CEDRI presents its respectful compliments to the Ministry of Labor and extends appreciation for the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote equal employment opportunities for all Liberians, including persons with disabilities. We write to formally request access of information from the Ministry of Labor of the opportunity to absorb persons with disabilities in the ongoing vacation job through the National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) which is the mother organization for all Organizations with Persons with Disabilities. This request is in line with our commitment to ensuring transparency, coordination, and the effective representation of persons with disabilities in employment-related matters. From a reliable source, the Centre for Disabilities Rights Inc. (CEDRI) received information regarding the Ministry of Labor’s (MOL) National Vacation Job Program and the allocation of slots to the National Union of Organizations for the Disabled (NUOD). According to the source, NUOD was given ten application forms intended for students with disabilities. However, CEDRI was informed that the distribution of these forms did not align with the program’s stated purpose. The forms were reportedly allocated among NUOD leadership and individuals who may not meet the criteria. NUOD President Peter B.K. Flomo received one slot, which he allegedly gave to his son, Peter Flomo Jr. Vice President for Administration Melvin Harding received one form, reportedly given to an individual named Tenezee. Another form was given to the NUOD driver, despite the program being intended for students with disabilities. Three forms were reportedly given to persons with disabilities who are already gainfully employed: Isaac, employed at Liberian Telecommunications (LITECO) Reuben, a teacher currently employ Chris, employed at African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU) One form was allegedly given to a person with a disability who is not currently enrolled in school, his name is Lawrence. According to the Ministry of Labor’s official communication, the vacation job program is specifically designed for students. Given these discrepancies, CEDRI is seeking to verify the accuracy of the information and determine whether the distribution of forms reflects the intended purpose of the program. CEDRI respectfully requests your cooperation in this investigation to uncover the truth and ensure transparency and fairness in the allocation of opportunities for persons with disabilities. The requested information will greatly assist CEDRI in monitoring, advocating, and engaging relevant stakeholders to ensure that qualified persons with disabilities are considered for available opportunities and that their rights are upheld in accordance with national labor laws and international commitments. We assure the Ministry that any information provided will be handled with the utmost confidentiality and used solely for advocacy and monitoring purposes in the interest of the disability community We thank you in advance for your usual cooperation and look forward to your favorable response. Respectfully, Signed: Approved: Amb. Yasito I. Dahnkuan Sr. Amb. Austine M. Baryo Country Director (CEDRI) Chief Executive Officer - CEDRI
Join Press Release CEDRI, NOUD, PADI & ULASD
JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON POLICE BRUTALITY AGAINST PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AT THE MINISTERIAL COMPLEX Date: December 15, 2025 Venue: [NUOD OFFICE] Issued Jointly By: Center for Disabilities Rights Inc. (CEDRI Liberia) National Union of Organizations of the Disabled (NUOD) Professional Advocates for Disabilities Inclusion (PADI) University of Liberia Association of Students with Disabilities (ULASD) OPENING STATEMENT Members of the press, representatives of civil society, government officials, international partners, and fellow citizens: We address you today with a profound sense of urgency, responsibility, and resolve. This press statement follows the violent and unlawful actions perpetrated against persons with disabilities by officers of the Liberia National Police on December 3, 2025, at the Ministerial Complex in Oldest Congo Town This incident occurred shortly after the official commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities—a day globally dedicated to dignity, inclusion, and respect. Instead of protection and accommodation, persons with disabilities were met with teargas, batons, humiliation, others badly wounded, arrested and imprisoned at the Zoon 4 Police Depot. At approximately 8:00 PM, after the conclusion of the official program, persons with disabilities—many of whom rely on mobility aids and require reasonable accommodation—requested transportation assistance to safely return home. What followed was excessive, unjustifiable force by members of the Liberian National Police Police officers deployed teargas on unarmed persons with disabilities, physically assaulted them with batons, arbitrarily arrested several individuals and imprisoned them at the Zoon 4 Police depot, and subjected many to torture and degrading treatment. Since that night, the consequences have been severe and deeply disturbing: Many persons with disabilities sustained major injuries and open wounds, requiring urgent medical attention at hospitals and clinics. Wheelchairs were broken or destroyed, stripping survivors of their independence and mobility. Crutches and walking aids were smashed by police officers, leaving individuals physically stranded. We have also received a recent but unconfirmed report that a visually impaired woman may have died days after the incident, allegedly due to injuries and trauma sustained during the brutality. Even as this report remains unverified, its gravity demands immediate investigation. If confirmed, this would elevate the incident from misconduct to a national human rights tragedy. These actions constitute clear violations of Liberia’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), including the rights to: Equality and non-discrimination, Liberty and security of the person Freedom from torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, Protection from violence and abuse They also violate the Liberian Constitution, domestic laws, and internationally accepted standards governing the use of force by law enforcement. As part of some of the actions we have taken to bring this to a logical closure, we have written a Joint Communiqué to the Independent National Human Rights Commission, The Inspector General of the Liberian National Police, and the Ministry of Justice unequivocally demanding: Immediate, independent, and transparent investigations, Full accountability, including administrative and criminal consequences for all officers involved, regardless of rank. Medical care, rehabilitation, and compensation for all victims, including replacement of damaged wheelchairs, crutches, and assistive devices, in a reasonable time frame. We also call for urgent clarification and investigation into the reported death of the visually impaired woman, with findings made public. Institutional reforms, including mandatory disability rights training for law enforcement, clear engagement protocols, and independent oversight mechanisms. We must also address a deeply troubling reality, Ladies and gentlemen of the Press. To date, no major civil society organization has publicly condemned the brutality inflicted on persons with disabilities. Including the National Civil Society Council of Liberia, the The Liberian Council of Churches, the Liberian Muslim Council amongst others. This silence represents a troubling departure from the core values of fairness, solidarity, and respect for human dignity upon which civil society is founded. We reject selective advocacy. It is both baffling and unacceptable that most of these voices only rise when funded, sponsored, or externally incentivized by International Partners. Advocacy that waits for donor approval before defending human dignity undermines the very purpose of civil society. The underfunding of disability rights cannot justify silence—especially when persons with disabilities are beaten, injured, detained, and possibly killed. Human rights are not conditional on donor interest. Solidarity must not be selective. Justice must not be transactional. We are not calling for confrontation. We are calling for accountability and reform. The credibility of Liberia’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law will be judged by how decisively and transparently this matter is addressed. To the Liberian public: what happens to persons with disabilities on December 3rd, sets a dangerous precedent for how any vulnerable group may be treated tomorrow. To the victims of the events of December 3, 2025, we say this clearly and unequivocally: you are not alone. Your pain has been seen, your voices have been heard, and your suffering will not be ignored. We stand firmly with you, and we will pursue justice until accountability is achieved and your dignity is fully restored. We call on all civil society organizations, human rights defenders, faith-based institutions, student movements, professional bodies, and every conscientious Liberian to stand in solidarity with persons with disabilities. This is not only a disability issue—it is a national human rights issue. Justice thrives when citizens speak together, not when injustice is confronted in isolation. We further call on the Government of the Republic of Liberia, particularly the Ministry of Justice, the National Human Rights Commission, and the leadership of the Liberia National Police, to act with urgency, transparency, and good faith. A speedy, independent, and credible investigation, carried through to a logical and just conclusion, is not optional—it is a constitutional and moral obligation. Liberia must demonstrate that the rule of law protects all citizens equally, including those living with disabilities. The manner in which this case is resolved will speak volumes about our national commitment to justice, accountability, and human dignity. We remain resolute. We remain united. And we will not relent until justice is done. Thank you!
'CEDRI' Press Release
Press Release From: The Centre for Disabilities Rights Inc. – Liberia (CEDRI) Date: July 29, 2025 Subject: Response to Misleading Public Remarks by the Executive Director of the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) and a Policy Recommendation for Implementation to the President Office H.E Joseph N. Boakai Greetings, fellow comrades with disabilities, The Centre for Disabilities Rights Inc. – Liberia (CEDRI) brings you warm greetings from its national leadership and the disable community of Liberia. This marks our first official Public Press Release since our establishment in October 2024 as a human rights institution committed to advocating for the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Liberia and beyond. At CEDRI, our mission is rooted in promoting, protecting, and defending the rights of PWDs through the principles of equality, accessibility, inclusion, and diversity. We firmly reject all harmful systems and practices that hinder the development and well-being of persons with disabilities. In the 21st century, exclusion from national development is unacceptable. This statement is issued in response to recent public remarks made by the Executive Director of the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD), Hon. Samuel Dean, during the 2025 United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) held in June. These statements were reiterated upon his return to Liberia during a press briefing and again at a meeting with Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPWDs) held on July 15, 2025, at the NCD headquarters in Congo Town, Monrovia. During these appearances, Hon. Dean claimed that the Government of Liberia had appointed five persons with disabilities to strategic positions within government institutions. He named three directors within the NCD itself and Mr. Noah Z. Gibson, Deputy Director for Operations at the National Transit Authority (NTA). However, as the law mandates that the NCD be led by persons with disabilities, these three appointments are not exceptional—they are a legal requirement. Regarding Mr. Gibson, while we acknowledge his contributions—particularly his support to the Unity Party’s rise to power—we believe he deserves an even higher role, perhaps at the ministerial or agency-director level. We also note that the identity of the fifth appointee remains unclear. Meanwhile, dozens of qualified graduates with disabilities remain unemployed and face systemic discrimination solely due to their disabilities. Yet, the Executive Director celebrates five appointments. We ask respectfully: Are you truly advocating for the disable community, Mr. Director? CEDRI and the disable community considers your statements misleading and unreflective of the realities faced by the majority of persons with disabilities in Liberia. We urge your office to refrain from misrepresenting the shared struggles of people with disabilities for short-term political gain. Furthermore, Hon. Dean informed the international community that nearly one million USD was allocated to NCD in the 2025 national budget. In reality, the approved amount was $521,569 USD. We ask: Where is the balance? While we understand the instinct to defend one's leadership, this must not come at the expense of truth or the community you serve. In addition, the Executive Director claimed that the entire amount was strictly for operational costs and excluded direct support for persons with disabilities. This is actually incorrect. The NCD's 2025 budget breakdown is as follows: • Compensation of Employees – $169,152 • Goods and Services – $96,665 • Grants – $55,752 • Non-Financial Assets – $200,000 This clearly includes funds that can support welfare, development, and service delivery for PWDs. According to Section Two of the Act establishing the NCD, the Commission has jurisdiction over all matters concerning the general welfare, well-being, and education of all persons with disabilities in Liberia. If the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare continues to control these areas, the law must be amended to transfer such responsibilities directly to the NCD, as originally intended. This legal foundation proves that the Commission’s role must go beyond administration—it includes direct service and advocacy for Persons With Disabilities. CEDRI and the disable community firmly believes that Hon. Samuel Dean has failed to accurately represent the real conditions faced by persons with disabilities in Liberia. His actions appear more by self-gain than by genuine advocacy. Meanwhile, the disability community continues to suffer neglect, marginalization, and lack of access to opportunities and services. Accessibility remains one of our biggest challenges. Equal opportunity is still denied, and though the word "inclusion" is often spoken, it is hardly practiced. Furthermore, the Centre for Disabilities Rights Inc. (CEDRI) respectfully urges the President of the Republic of Liberia His Excellency Joseph N. Boakai to appoint a dedicated Disabilities Adviser within the Office of the President. This crucial step would ensure that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are meaningfully represented at the highest level of national decision-making. A Disabilities Adviser would provide expert counsel to the President on matters affecting the disability community, including equality, accessibility, diversity, and social inclusion. This position is essential for fostering inclusive governance and promoting the rights and well-being of PWDs. At present, the President’s office includes advisers on legal, youth, political, religious, and security affairs. However, the absence of a Disabilities Adviser is a glaring oversight — one that perpetuates systemic exclusion and discrimination against a significant segment of Liberia’s population. Such an appointment is long overdue. Since Liberia’s founding, no administration has ever included a Disabilities Adviser in the executive office. This omission must be urgently corrected if Liberia is to fulfill its commitment to human rights, the Sustainable Development Goals, and the principles of inclusive development. Moreover, CEDRI is deeply concerned about the ongoing practice of distributing food rations to organizations of PWDs during national holidays such as Independence Day and Christmas. While we acknowledge the goodwill behind these gestures, we must emphasize that charity alone cannot address the chronic challenges faced by the disability community. Once the donated food runs out, how are PWDs expected to sustain themselves without access to employment, livelihood opportunities, or a Disability Sustainable Allowance (DSA)? We therefore call on the Government of Liberia to move beyond ceremonial gestures and implement a comprehensive, year-round support system for PWDs — one that empowers individuals economically, socially, and politically. The inclusion of a Disabilities Adviser is a necessary starting point for real change. To our fellow citizens with disabilities: We must rise with one voice to claim what is rightfully ours. We must not settle for handouts or lies and deception. United, we are stronger—and together, we can defeat the forces that exclude and oppress us. Inclusion is not charity. It is a right. Let us build a Liberia where no one is left behind. May God bless us all and preserve our Republic. Nothing About Us, Without Us!
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