By Nukanah Kollie | kollienukanah94@gmail.com
GBARNGA CITY, BONG COUNTY – In a landmark decision signaling a shift toward inclusive governance in Liberia, Bong County has witnessed a momentous step that promises to amplify the voices of one of its most overlooked communities—persons living with disabilities. In a bold and commendable move, Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. has appointed Anthony Z. Kollie, a physically challenged citizen and disability rights advocate, as Liaison for Persons Living with Disabilities across the county’s 14 sub-districts.
The appointment, widely celebrated by disability groups and civil society actors, represents a historic milestone for Bong County. It is the first time in the county’s political history that a person with a disability has been elevated to such a strategic and visible position within the office of a sitting lawmaker.
About Anthony Z. Kollie
Anthony Z. Kollie is a longtime advocate for the rights and welfare of persons living with disabilities. A resident of Gbarnga City, he has dedicated much of his life to raising awareness on the challenges faced by disabled individuals in Liberia. Kollie has worked tirelessly on issues related to accessibility, education, and employment for persons with disabilities, building strong partnerships with national and international disability advocacy organizations. His appointment as the Liaison for Persons Living with Disabilities marks the culmination of his years of advocacy work, positioning him to make a tangible difference for his community at the local level.
In an emotional reaction to the announcement, Anthony Z. Kollie thanked the senator for what he described as a “visionary and historic” decision. “Thank you, Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr.,” Kollie voiced with pride, “for recognizing that our voices matter, and for having the confidence to allow me to represent my community in this capacity.”
Kollie’s responsibilities as liaison will include coordinating programs, advocating for accessibility and inclusion, and serving as a direct link between persons living with disabilities and the office of Senator Moye. His reach will extend to all 14 sub-districts of Bong County—an effort aimed at bridging long-standing gaps in representation and service delivery for the disabled community.
To empower him in this role, Senator Moye’s office has pledged to provide a brand new motorbike, enabling Kollie to traverse the county with ease and efficiency. The gesture is both practical and symbolic—a demonstration of the Senator’s commitment to dismantling barriers to mobility and participation.
This initiative aligns with the broader goals of Liberia’s National Policy on Disability, which was launched in 2011. The policy promotes equal rights, access, and full societal integration of persons with disabilities. However, implementation at local government levels has remained inconsistent, making this development in Bong County a pioneering model for disability inclusion.
Reactions from the local disabled community have been overwhelmingly positive.
“I am overwhelmed with joy,” said Mamie Flomo, a visually impaired woman from Jorquelleh District. “For the first time, we feel heard and seen in the political space.”
“This move by Senator Moye gives hope to all disabled women who are too often left behind,” added Mary Togbah, a hearing-impaired resident of Suakoko District. “We thank him for not only speaking for us but including us in the process.”
John Mulbah, a physically challenged farmer in Zota District, echoed their sentiments: “Anthony understands our struggles because he lives them. We believe he will truly represent us. We appreciate Senator Moye for this timely inclusion.”
This appointment has not only restored hope but also laid the groundwork for greater representation of the disabled population in governance. Many hope that other lawmakers and counties will take cues from Senator Moye’s inclusive leadership.
As Liberia continues to grapple with inequality and marginalization in public affairs, this bold step taken in Bong County stands out as a beacon of possibility. Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr. has been rightfully lauded for his effort to bring all voices to the table, ensuring that disability is no longer seen as a barrier to leadership, but a valued perspective in shaping public policy.
With Anthony Z. Kollie now officially serving as the face of disability advocacy in the Senator’s office, a long-ignored community is finally beginning to find its rightful place in Bong County’s governance.
