Monrovia, Liberia – A group of visually impaired citizens on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest in front of the Executive Mansion, calling for the immediate dismissal of Mr. Sam Dean, Executive Director of the Liberia National Commission on Disabilities (LNCOD).
The protesters, many of whom are members of the visually impaired community, accused Mr. Dean of mismanaging funds intended to empower persons with disabilities. According to the group, President Joseph N. Boakai reportedly provided US$200,000 to support employment initiatives for people living with disabilities, but they allege that Mr. Dean instead used the funds to purchase a personal vehicle.
Chanting slogans and holding placards, the demonstrators demanded accountability and transparency within the Commission. “Where is the money that was given by Orange Liberia? We want the full amount,” one protester shouted.
Another protester expressed disappointment over what they described as government neglect. “President Boakai came and saw us right at the gate, but he didn’t even stop to talk to us. Since this morning, nobody has come to check on us,” the individual lamented.
The group vowed to continue their protest until President Boakai takes action against the LNCOD leadership, which they claim has failed to advocate for or improve the lives of people with disabilities in Liberia.
