Activist condemns violations of Sierra Leone Persons with Disabilities Act 2011

A disability rights activist, Adama Team Foundation-US-UK-SL has strongly condemned the recent violation of the Sierra Leone Persons with Disabilities Act 2011, specifically regarding the attempted removal of Dr. Vandy Konneh, the current Chairman of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).

The activist highlights that the Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, misled the government by recommending a new chairman despite there being no vacancy, a clear breach of the 2011 Disability Act. Dr. Konneh was duly appointed on May 16, 2024, and approved by parliament in June 2024.

The Act outlines clear procedures for the appointment and tenure of the Chairman, including a three-year term and specific conditions for removal (Section 4), relating to lack of performance, incompetence or criminal behaviour. Dr. Konneh's situation does not fall under these conditions, rendering the attempted replacement unlawful.

The National Alliance for Persons with Disabilities, which this foundation is a part of, demands immediate action: Dr. Konneh should be allowed to complete his term, an investigation into the minister's actions initiated, policies modified for future compliance, and the unlawful appointment letter retracted.

Parliamentarians are urged to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.