By Mariama Jalloh
Monrovia, Liberia –The Women’s NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 29-year-old Kadiatu Dioh, calling for immediate justice and accountability. The organization described the incident as a painful reminder of the widespread gender based violence faced by women in Liberia.
According to reports, Kadiatu Dioh, a young mother, died after suffering severe head injuries from a violent attack in Johnsonville Township. Eyewitnesses allege that the assault was carried out by her husband Papie Lema Dioh, and another woman believed to be his girlfriend.
She was rushed to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center but later succumbed to internal brain bleeding.
Despite detailed witness accounts, WONGOSOL expressed deep concern over what it describes as a troubling delay in police action and investigation.
WONGOSOL Executive Director Madam Esther S. D. Yargo stated that the tragic case is not an isolated incident but reflects the daily horrors faced by many Liberian women trapped in abusive relationships, often without sufficient legal protection or support.
Family members, including Kadiatu’s sister Hawa Abigail Neewon, revealed that the young mother had endured years of domestic violence, despite court interventions and family efforts to protect her.
They further criticized the Liberia National Police (LNP) for what they see as a lack of urgency in investigating the murder. The family says they were even advised to proceed with burial arrangements before a full investigation was concluded something they find unacceptable.
WONGOSOL is however calling on the Liberia National Police, the Ministry of Justice, and JFK Medical Center to take the following actions without any delay.
As to release the official autopsy and death report to the family, conduct a full, transparent, and impartial investigation, arrest and prosecute all individuals involved in the alleged assault, provide protection and psychosocial support for Kadiatu’s child and immediate family.
The organization also called on civil society groups, human rights organizations, the international community, and the Liberian public to stand in solidarity with Kadiatu family and demand justice.
Madam Yango reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to fighting gender-based violence and protecting the rights of women and girls emphasizing that Kadiatu Dioh’s life mattered and her voice has been silenced.
The Women’s NGO Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL), founded in 1998, is an umbrella organization that advocates for the rights of women and girls across Liberia. It works to promote gender equality, social justice, and women’s participation in governance and peace building.
