On Wednesday night, proud Liberians watched in anticipation as countries around the world paraded into the Maracana Stadium at the opening ceremony of the XV Paralympic Games in Rio. To the disappointment of many, the Lone Star banner did not enter into the arena.

Where was Liberia’s strong man, James Bobby Siaffa?

According to a letter sent to the International Paralympic Committee, Siaffa has taken a stand against issues of abuse and neglect from leaders of the Liberian National Paralympic Committee.

The powerlifter alleges that he sustained constant verbal abuse, poor treatment, abandonment, and no athletic support from LNPC President Jefferson Zoegbeh and Secretary General Festus Robinson.

As quickly as Siaffa’s athletic profile was posted to the official Rio Paralympic site, it was removed. In the letter to the IPC, Siaffa stated, “I strongly believe and know that these two men have a lack of regard and interest in developing opportunities for disabled Liberians.”

A screenshot of Siaffa’s official Rio Paralympics profile before it was removed.

Siaffa also cites the lack of effort to develop Paralympic sports in Liberia and recruit new Paralympic athletes as additional reasons for his tough decision to boycott the games.

Based on these upsetting allegations, in addition to Siaffa’s expressed fear and discomfort, LIB Olympic Blog supports his choice.

We will contact Siaffa for the opportunity to share his story and what he hopes to accomplish during this time.  A representative for Siaffa informed LIB Olympic Blog about the issue and how the Liberian government is intervening on the athlete’s behalf.

This article originally appeared in the Liberian Olympic Blog. Featured photo by Flickr’s Simon