“Gov’t not Living up to Expectations” - Liberty Party Barks at Lazy Approach to Fight Corruption

AB Darius Dillon Speaks at CCL Forum

MONROVIA/USA: The opposition Liberty Party (LP) through its Senior Policy Advisor, Abraham Darius Dillon, has growled at the Liberian Government, headed by longtime politician, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, for doing little to fight corruption- a menace that was declared public enemy number one in 2006.

The LP newly appointed Senior Policy Advisor who is currently studying  at Strayer University in the United States, said “Liberty Party believes that the Government is not living up to expectations; especially in the fight against corruption, but it does not support its early removal-we believe in the democratic process; as such, does not subscribe to calls for President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s resignation.

The LP strongman’s comments were contained in a speech he delivered at the Coalition for Concerned Liberians Forum held in the State Of Maryland, USA on Sunday, September 8, 2013, under the theme: “Corruption – A Fault Of Government, Or A Product Of  The Society” In Celebration Of Ten Years Of Peace & Stability In Liberia.

According to Mr. Dillon, LP sturdily believes that corruption is the act of impairing integrity, virtue, or moral principle, noting that “it is no telling that there has been a disappointing reversal of morals and integrity in our country.”

The LP Senior Policy Advisor maintained that the government has failed to adequately address employment, but it is doing well on the infrastructure front.

He stressed that his political institution believes that if opportunities that seek to empower our people and give them a sense of economic security are provided for all Liberians regardless of political, religious, tribal or social beliefs or connections, people will begin to serve with integrity and even wish to retire at a certain or prescribed age as is the case in other parts of the world.

In this light, Liberty Party wishes to prevail upon our Legislature to consider passing people-driven legislations that would provide State-funded Financial Aid and Loans to Students, reasonable Retirement Benefits for our senior citizens and those who had been in public service over a protracted period.

He added that “corruption has permeated every fabric of the society to the extent that our minds, attitudes and the way we do things are entangled in this menace.”

“There is corruption in the homes, communities, churches, and schools, etc. There is corruption in our attitudes to the extent that we Liberians, especially the younger generation, have developed a high sense of hatred, envy and jealousy that make people go to length and breadth to destroy one another,” he said.

Mr. Dillon also stressed that corruption poses a serious development challenge and it undermines good governance.
He continued: “this societal vice is shamelessly in our Legislature to the extent that it impedes accountability and representation in policymaking. Corruption in the Judiciary derails respect for the rule of law. Yet still, corruption in public administration results in the unequal provision of services and does erode the institutional capacity of government as procedures are disregarded, resources are siphoned, while some of those accused or suspected to be engaged in this unacceptable act most times go with impunity, or are re-hired or promoted without regard to integrity or credibility.”

The soft spoken LP Senior Policy Advisor maintained that dishonesty generates economic distortions in the public sector by diverting public investment away from health and education, and into infrastructural projects where bribes and kickbacks are plentiful. He also noted that corrupt officials are found in the habit of increasing the technical complexity of public sector projects to conceal corrupt dealings; thus further distorting investments and also lowering compliance with construction, environmental, or other regulations; reducing the quality of government services and infrastructure; and increasing budgetary pressures on government.

http://theindependentliberia.com/index.php/politics/390-gov-t-not-living-up-to-expectations-liberty-party-barks-at-lazy-approach-to-fight-corruption

General

 

Posted by Omy

September 19, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

Abraham Darius Dillon

Liberty Party executive Abraham Darius Dillon, has written President Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf, requesting her to veto the just passed 2013/2014 National Budget due to failure by lawmakers to increase civil servants’ salary.
“For the sake of our people, especially our hardworking and dedicated civil servants PLEASE VETO the National Budget as was recently passed into law by the Legislature. This VETO request is to consider the plight of these Civil Servants because of the current difficult economic period in our country.

NEW DAWN

 

Darius Dillon Writes Ellen

Thursday, 19 September 2013 00:23 By Edwin G. Genoway, Jr.

 TRANSLATE 

Liberty Party executive Abraham Darius Dillon, has written President Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf, requesting her to veto the just passed 2013/2014 National Budget due to failure by lawmakers to increase civil servants’ salary.

“For the sake of our people, especially our hardworking and dedicated civil servants PLEASE VETO the National Budget as was recently passed into law by the Legislature. This VETO request is to consider the plight of these Civil Servants because of the current difficult economic period in our country. 

This economic difficulty should be reasonably shared across the board, not by Civil Servants alone, as the current reality seems to suggest. To ensure this, you can propose to the Legislature a twenty percent reduction in (especially the benefits) of all public officials, elected or appointed, in order to help increase the salaries of our Civil Servants,” Dillon’s letter to the President read.

He said, it is unrealistic for Civil Servants’ salary to remain unreasonably low, while other public officials continue to receive huge benefits amidst increasing economic hardship and abject poverty here.

The Liberian dollar has rapidly depreciated in the past two months so much so that one US Dollar is being exchanged at forex exchange bureax in Monrovia for 80 Liberia Dollars.

Dillon continues in his letter,  “Madam President, permit me to respectfully remind you that for the last two Fiscal Years, promises have been made to consider some reasonable increments in the salaries of Civil Servants, contingent upon “cleansing of Government Payroll of Ghost Names”. "

"To date, the public is unaware as to where we stand on this Payroll “cleansing” process. Rather, salaries of these Civil Servants remain unreasonably low, considering the unrealistic disparities in comparison to the salaries and huge benefits of other Public Officials in the Legislature, Executive and Judiciary.”

He urged the President to propose a twenty percent reduction in the benefits of all public officials, especially those elected or appointed to help increase the salaries of Civil Servants, stressing that in spite of the constitutional mandate of the Legislature to over-ride the President’s veto power, a veto against the budget would be prudent for the sake of civil servants.

It however remains unclear if President Sirleaf will veto the budget as recommended by the Liberty Party stalwart. But House Speaker Alex Tyler has warned that the Liberian leader does not have any right to increase the salary of Civil Servants.

The House of Representatives failed to make any increment in civil servants' salary, but only legislated President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's general increment of US$25 for civil servants as stated in her 2013 Annual Massage, while the Senate cited budgetary constraints, saying it was necessary for civil servants’ salary to remain as is.

 

http://newspic.info/liberia/darius-dillon-writes-ellen-new-dawn/

http://allafrica.com/stories/201302251357.html

Essentially, the “American dream” is an idea that suggests that anyone in the USA can succeed through hard work and has the potential to lead a happy, successful life. The "American Dream" also ensures freedom and provision of opportunities for all. Anyone who manages to achieve his or her version of the "American Dream" is often said to be “living the dream.”

What is the "Liberian Dream"? Do we have one? Will we ever have one? If not, can we define one? Can we create opportunities for our people to also live a "Liberian Dream" modeled after or even better than the American version?

Da me.... Darius Dillon.... asking.

WRITTEN BY ABRAHAM DARIUS DILLON, CONTRIBUTING WRITER    Sunday, 24 February 2013 21:36

 

 

"Due Process of Law" is the "law that hears before it renders judgment". There are certain basic requirements that constitute "due process". There must be a complainant and a defendant, and the defendant must be acquainted with whatever complaint/charge against him or her. The defendant must be told his or her rights to remain silent and accorded the right to a legal representation of choice. The defendant must also be accorded the right to produce evidence/witnesses to testify in his/her defense, amongst others. Absent these basic tenets, due process has not been satisfied, and any person so affected by an action or judgment under such circumstances suffers a violation of their fundamental and constitutional rights.

 

Having said that...........

1. The House of Representative ignored almost all the basic tenets of "due process" and UNLAWFULLY sentenced Madam Grace Kpaan to jail. Again, it is important to note that "due process" is not a gift, it is fundamental and constitutional. It should, and must be observed and accorded anywhere and every time a person's fundamental and constitutional rights and/or privileges such as LIFE, LIBERTY, PROPERTY, etc.... may be affected. First, the body seeking to curtail or suspend any of such rights MUST be vested with such jurisdictional competency. Whether it be before a court, legislative or administrative body; "due process" MUST be accorded and respectedat all times. Second, "due process" MUST be accorded and respected at every step along the way.

The Supreme Court of Liberia has made this unambiguous and very succinct so many times. Reference is hereby made ofSnowe Vs. The House of Representatives; Nyenabo Vs. The Senate; Dillon Vs. The House of Representatives;WoloVs. Wolo, etc. In all of these matters, the Supreme Court defined "due process" as the "law that hears before it renders judgment"; and insists it MUST be accorded and respected at all times. By the mere presence of Grace Kpaan's lawyer, but prevented, prohibited and denied exercise of her function as a Lawyer does not constitute legal representation, one of the basic tenets of "due process".The Legislature, particularly the House of Representatives cannot, and should not be allowed to deliberately violate these basic fundamental and constitutional rights in the name of holding people for “CONTEMPT”. It is becoming evident that the Legislators are misusing the legislative contempt powers as enshrined in the Constitution of Liberia; and this is totally unacceptable. I therefore call on the House to do the honorable thing and reverse this embarrassing, unlawful and shameless decision against Madam Kpaan.

2. Even though the action of the House against Madam Grace Kpaan was wrong, it did not give Madam Mary Broh any iota of right to have "obstructed". She is NOT a Court or "law unto herself". Notwithstanding, the House cannot sentence her to jail without according "due process". The law is such that even if you are caught in the act stealing or killing, you MUST be accorded "due process" before a body competent to convict or free you. I call on the House to do the right and legal thing this time around. Madam Broh must not go unpunished for her act. I concur with President Ellen Johnson-Sirleafto suspend Madam Broh under the circumstances.

3. Regarding Madam Grace Kpaan's suspension, I hold the view that President Sirleaf neither exercised leadership from the very beginning of this entire debacle, nor was her suspension action against Madam Grace Kpaan a good judgment. The decision was ILL-ADVISED. The President had all the time and long enough to have acted when the House first accused Madam Kpaan of "financial impropriety". She should have acted expeditiously at that time by either calling on Madam Kpaan to make a full report through the Minister of Internal Affairs or directly to her Office. She failed to have acted at the time leadership was needed. I hold the view that had the President acted when the House first raised the ‘alarm’, her singular and timely action would have averted the current mess.I can only hope this will be a serious lesson learned for our national leaders to decisively act on issues in a timely manner to avert or avoid these national embarrassments and near constitutional crisis.

This reminds me about other related issues, particularly the alarming and somewhat embarrassing issuance of Private Use Permit (PUP) at the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), and the ongoing trading of accusations of financial mismanagement and impropriety at the Roberts International Airport between the “dismissed” Managing Director of the Roberts International Airport and the Board of the Liberia Aviation Authority (LAA).  These are issues of grave corruption allegations that must not be allowed to “die a natural death”. The President is encouraged, and she must act with decisive immediacy to ensure that those who preside over positions of public trusts are made to account for their stewardship. We appreciate the level of public discussions and exposure of these alleged corrupt practices; it’s time to PRACTICALLY and ROBUSTLY act against these alleged corrupt “suspects”.

Honestly “Speaking Truth to Power”!

 

- See more at: http://www.frontpageafricaonline.com/op-ed-editorial/commentary/5365-grace-kpaan-vs-the-house-basic-tenets-of-due-process-ignored.html#sthash.VZEUvmsm.dpuf- See more at: http://www.frontpageafricaonline.com/op-ed-editorial/commentary/5365-grace-kpaan-vs-the-house-basic-tenets-of-due-process-ignored.html#sthash.VZEUvmsm.dpuf

It is not uncommon for most Liberians – mostly those reviewing prevailing in-country conditions from political perspectives – to blame the nation’s snail-paced recovery on the Sirleaf Administration’s believed lack of workable policies or amenability to corruption.

But rights advocate Abraham Darius Dillon, while bewailing Liberia’s lack of progress, says there is more to the practiced attack on the so-called fair game. 

He thinks the growing lack of patriotism and nationalism amongst political administrators, politicians, techno- and bureaucrats, and ordinary and Diaspora Liberians is equally suspect.

“But how?” is the question many are asking. The Analyst, reports. 

Rights advocate Darius Dillon, while bewailing Liberia’s lapses, says the nation will remain backward, unless Liberians of various persuasions and residency took concrete steps to reverse the prevailing brain drain and lack of patriotic and nationalistic spirits.

The assertions were contained in the undated apostrophe he released over the weekend. Mr. Dillon currently resides in the US studying at the Strayer University.

The apostrophe opened with a lamentation in which the ace political kingmaker bewailed the nation’s lack of progress comparable to its neighbours – mainly Sierra Leone and Cote d’Ivoire that had suffered the same fate as she did – and then progressed to the main causes for the nation’s underdevelopment and seeming stagnation.

“To be candid with you [Mama Liberia], most of them [neighboring countries] provide opportunities that you lack; and it takes real courage, love and strong will to resist. The opportunities some of your ‘compatriots’ provide for and affording their children are opportunities you have never provided for me and about 95% of my brothers and sisters since your existence."

"It is due to lack of these opportunities that some of my brother and sisters will (understandably) stop at nothing until they adopt a second ‘Mother’ and practically renounce you. In fact, some of them have even done so already,” he said.

But he was quick to concede that given its abundant resources, the nation was not entirely to blame for the prevailing snail-paced recovery and lack of development. Some Liberians, at various levels, share the blame, according to him.

From the senseless civil war that left thousands of Liberians dead, sent thousands others scurrying into exile and refugee camps, and precipitated the brain drain, to the lack of patriotic and nationalistic spirit, to the current fade of naturalization in countries in which Liberians took residency, he said, the bleeding of the nation had known no end.

He said not only did Liberians killed one another during their quest for freedom, but that many who chose to flee the hostilities, have resorted to adopting new countries while those who remained in the country resort to self-seeking and pillaging of the nation’s meager resources.

Mr. Dillon said he was opened to corrections, as he knew not everything, but that those who abandoned the country or who chose to use the plight of the poor majority to enrich themselves deserved God’s wrath.

“But, that was just one aspect,” he said, noting that there were other class of Liberians who were prepared to work with all they have to set the nation back on a forward trajectory of development, stability, and reconciliation.

He said this class of Liberians would take advantage of their training gained at home, abroad or in exile, to turn the nation’s miseries into opportunities. By their escaping the hostilities in Liberia, he noted, Providence predestined these Liberians to rebuild the nation.

“You see, there is ‘good’ in every ‘bad’. These categories of your children are better prepared to help rescue you today. So, please understand and forgive them. ‘Mother Liberia’, your ‘dark days’ are over. You need to rise up,” Dillon said in the apostrophe.

He blamed the greed, selfishness, corruption, and sheer lack of love of country perpetrated by some Liberians in position of influence and trust for the nation’s current pathetic state of recovery and noted that the end of the party was in the offing.

According to him, in collaborations with the Sirleaf Administration sincere Liberians, including himself, will proceed to face the challenges facing the nation’s recovery and its underprivileged children and unemployed youths.   

“Mother Liberia’, be assured that we, your well-meaning children still LOVE and BELIEVE in you so much. Like the Biblical Ruth said… ‘Wherever you live, we shall live; and wherever you die, we shall die. Whatever you eat, we shall eat’,” the rights advocate and kingmaker said.

The new breed of citizens whom he dubbed ‘belly-born’ patriots and nationalists, he said without naming names, were prepared to heal the nation’s wounds, restore its pride, and protect its integrity as member of the comity of civilized, productive nations.

“We are very much unwilling to hurt, destroy or abandon you (again) for any reason. The thought of being your belly-born brings us joy and pride, even in your current state. I, along with a host of your other children, owe you so much. We owe you a nationalistic and conscious responsibility,” he said.

In the new spirit of love of nation, he said, in which loyalty and patriotism will prevail, the nation will know no greed, heartlessness, and don’t-care attitude.

The apostrophe described a Liberian close to a utopian society, something like the Earth after Armageddon as described in the Bible. Without saying whether these new normal will come into being under the Sirleaf Administration, Mr. Dillon who was a vocal critic of the Sirleaf Administration before becoming its proselyte, said the new crusaders for fast-track development in Liberia “dare not fail you again, ‘Mama’”.  

He said it was the vow of this class of Liberians to “strive to bring and keep hope alive”.  

“Although few of your children and some ‘strangers’ are losing faith in you, most of us shall continue to have abiding faith in you. Where there are no opportunities, some of us will do the right and proper things so as to ensure provision and affordability of needed opportunities for your underprivileged children,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Dillon said Liberia would continue to march ahead, fearing no digression from its path. He revealed that he composed the apostrophe in tears as an “obedient, humble, and repenting son” of the land.

The Analyst was unable to contact Mr. Dillon for comment on what prompted the apostrophe, which analysts say is more prophetic than politically or economically realistic for its silence on concrete political or non-state actor agenda for development.

http://www.analystliberia.com/index.php/politics/224-dillon-bewails-liberia-s-lapses

My Dearest ‘Motherland’… Liberia,

It is with sober reflection that I write you this letter. It may not be one of my best communications, because, as I write, I cannot control the loads of tears rolling down my cheeks in grief and sorrow of your current poor and sad condition. So, please forgive me should I forget some key points or misrepresent some facts. I shall leave it to your other well-meaning children to fill in or correct me (should they be touched and decide to do so).

‘Mother Liberia’, I can vividly recall how, at the time of my birth, you were a loving, beautiful, hospitable, caring and accommodating ‘Mother’, not only to us….your belly-born; you did similarly to all who came under your domain. The radiance of your beauty, the peace and quietude of your abode attracted many children from other ‘Mothers’ (Foreign Countries) unto you, including Africa’s iconic leader Nelson Madiba Mandela. Under your watch and care, they felt and enjoyed the same warmth and love you showered upon us. I remember those days and, they shall remain ingrain in my memory. I still recall how, at a certain point in time, you were even referred to as “Small America in Africa”, or “heaven on earth”. 

Unfortunately, few of your very belly-born nearly destroyed you in the name of finding “freedom”. During the period of their “freedom” search, you stood by in total disbelief and watched them kill up each other. In a state of shock, you helplessly witnessed them practically damage everything you struggled to build over a century. The damage was so extensive and hurting. Saddest of all was the fact you could do nothing to make them see reason to stop their carnage against you and themselves. I can imagine the level of pain and sorrow it brought to your tender heart, especially seeing your own children in whom you strived to instill so much love, respect and discipline behave in such brutal and destructive fashion. But, that was just one aspect.

‘Mother Liberia’, the second aspect of their “freedom” search caused hundreds of thousands of your belly-born to abandon you. They, understandably, did so against their will. They had to flee to foreign ‘Mothers’ for safety. On their way, some of them even shed emotional tears as they left you behind to fend for yourself. I have heard countless stories about the unkind and sometimes very harsh treatments that were meted against your children by some of those foreign ‘Mothers’. At that time, and under the prevailing situation you were facing, they preferred and had to endure those unkind treatments, compared to staying with you only to see their own brothers and sisters rape and/or kill them in the name of “freedom”. However, it is fair to recognize and appreciate that most of them remembered and took advantage of the training you instilled into them. They were determined to turn their miseries into opportunities; and they did. Thankfully today, most of them are better prepared in terms of quality education and benefiting from access to other opportunities. Who knows? Had they stayed behind to look after you, most of them might not have survived or have the opportunity to improve and empower themselves. You see, there is ‘good’ in every ‘bad’. These category of your children are better prepared to help rescue you today. So, please understand and forgive them.

Finally ‘Mother Liberia’, your ‘dark days’ are over. You need to rise up. All your ‘compatriots’ around you and other parts of the world are moving far ahead; leaving you not just behind, but far behind in terms of growth and development. To tell you the truth! Whenever I imagine, feel and taste the greatness of some of these other ‘Motherlands’, I can be tempted to adopt one of them and renounce you, or make you my secondary ‘Motherland’. To be candid with you, most of them provide opportunities that you lack; and it takes real courage, love and strong will to resist. ‘Motherland’, the opportunities some of your ‘compatriots’ provide and can afford for their children are opportunities you have never provided for me and about 95% of my brothers and sisters since your existence. It is due to lack of these opportunities that some of my brother and sisters will (understandably) stop at nothing until they adopt a second ‘Motherland’ and practically renounce you. In fact, some of them have even done so already. Who can blame them, anyways? Who does not want to enjoy opportunities to a decent life? Why should innocent children ‘suffer’ at the hands of a ‘Mother’ who has the means to provide these opportunities, but lacks the will to do so? It is not that you cannot provide or afford them. You can. You have the resources and all it takes. You are far richer than most ‘Motherlands’ around the world. But your problem is because all your ‘older children’ in whom you placed trust and confidence to lead and manage your wealth did not only fail; they also neglected and selfishly refused to do those things that would ensure provision and affordability of such opportunities for me and your other underprivileged children. God will punish them for leading you down this path. When I look around and see you and my other brothers and sisters in this appalling state of hopelessness and destitution, I cannot help but to once more ask God’s wrath and punishment upon all your children who caused you and us this pain and backwardness.

‘Mother Liberia’, be assured that we, your well-meaning children still LOVE and BELIEVE in you so much. Like the Biblical Ruth said… “Wherever you live, we shall live; and wherever you die, we shall die. Whatever you eat, we shall eat”. We are very much unwilling to hurt, destroy or abandon you (again) for any reason. The thought of being your belly-born brings us joy and pride, even in your current state. I, along with a host of your other children, owe you so much. We owe you a nationalistic and conscious responsibility. We owe you loyalty and patriotism. We cannot allow the greed, heartlessness and don’t-care attitude of some of your children to cause us turn our backs to you. If you have ever needed your well-meaning children, it is NOW. We dare not fail you again, ‘Mama’. Where there is no hope in you, some us….your willing children shall strive to bring and keep hope alive. Although few of your children and some ‘strangers’ are losing faith in you, most of us shall continue to have abiding faith in you. Where there are no opportunities, some of us will do the right and proper things so as to ensure provision and affordability of needed opportunities for your underprivileged children. We shall not allow anything…. I mean anything….cause us to destroy and abandon you ever again.

With hope and abiding faith, I remain.

Your obedient Son,

Abraham Darius Dillon

The academic authority of the prestigious Strayer University in the United States has spotted useful potentials in Abraham Darius Dillon and minced in no words in letting him savor his flowers.

“Congratulations.  Your excellent grades during Fall Quarter 2012 places you on the Honor Roll. On behalf of Strayer University, I congratulate you on your scholarly achievement and offer you encouragement in your future educational endeavors,” the Strayer University said in a communication to Mr. Dillon dated December 27, 2012.

The former kingmaker in Liberian politics earned the “scholarly achievement” after his first semester at the university, which ended in December.

In a communication to this paper, Mr. Dillon vowed to transform the university’s “encouragement” into another concrete achievement in the second semester that began on January 7 this year.   

“This is NOT for self-fame, but to encourage others who are still either complacent or discouraged about seeking higher education. All they need do is to brace themselves for such worthy endeavor. ‘The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step’,” he said in the communication.

Meanwhile, Mr. Dillon said not only is he aiming to impress the academic authority of SU but that he would also endeavor to make the ‘President’s List’.  Mr. Dillon is studying in the US on a private scholarship.

A campaigner and supporter of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf second presidential term, Abraham Darius Dillon says that nepotism is being practiced in every office at the National Legislature of Liberia. Mr. Dillon writing on his face book page from the United States where he is undergoing studies asked, “Where is the "APPROPRIATE LEGISLATION" that is supposed to be enacted by the Legislature as mandated and contained in Article 5c of the Constitution of Liberia? Chapter II Article 5c of the Constitution of Liberia states that “the Republic should take steps, by APPROPRIATE LEGISLATION and executive orders, to eliminate sectionalism and tribalism, and such abuses of power as the misuse of government resources, nepotism and all other corrupt practices”. Dillon’s reaction is in apparent reaction to allegations from some Liberians including members of the National Legislature that President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is practicing nepotism in her government by employing her children and other family members and friends to top government positions.

“Who is authorized and empowered to enact the appropriate legislation”? “Isn't it the Legislature”? Mr. Dillon asked. “Why has that body failed, neglected and/or refused (deliberately) to do so as was done by Congress in the United States of America (after Robert Kennedy's Appointment as Secretary of the Justice Department by his brother, President JFK)”?

 The reason behind their failure is simple, he said. "Nepotism is being practiced at its peak and shamelessly in every office at the Liberian Legislature by the Legislators themselves”, pointing out that they lack the moral rectitude and political will to enact such law.  “And until a law is enacted that implicitly and legally says what nepotism is, it is NOT illegal to appoint a family or friend, he maintained. Efforts to contact officials at the Legislature for comments failed.

Mr. Dillon currently pursuing his undergraduate studies at the Strayer University in United States.

http://www.concordtimes.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55:nepotism-in-every-office-of-legislature-says-darius-dillon-&catid=7:politics&Itemid=9

Mr. Abraham Darius Dillon, a staunch supporter of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and the ruling Unity Party, has lauded the standard bearer of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) George M. Weah for being what he calls a true nationalist. The CDC, which is headed by the African football legend, is the leading opposition political party in the country.

While concluding a meeting with political parties’ leaders this week, President Sirleaf informed them (political leaders) that Amb. Weah has consented to work with the government as “Peace Ambassador,” and will assist with the reconciliation efforts. As part of his duties, Mr. Weah will put together his own Plan of Action as to how he will proceed.

In a post on his face book page, Mr. Dillon said the CDC political leader has demonstrated a true sense of nationalism, which touches him (Dillon). Said Dillon: “I wish to commend him for accepting to graciously serve our country as Peace Ambassador. I have no doubt that he will justify the confidence reposed in him by the people of Liberia by and through the President of Liberia. His courage and willingness to serve in this very crucial position, notwithstanding his role as head of the most populous opposition political party, has once more elevated and distinguished him as a true nationalist.”

“Like I have always said, we all consciously owe a duty to our country and people. I wish him well as he embarks upon the herculean task of seeking to reconcile our country torn apart and deeply divided in every sphere…. Politically, socially, ethnically, economically, etc. I wish you well, sir” he furthered.

He also pointed out that those who continue to harbor that those who see reasons to speak for or serve in the UP-led administration means they are generally and automatically “corrupt”, “gravy-seekers”, “belly-driven”, “inconsistent” and “job-seekers”,  Amb. Weah’s consent to serve should send a very strong message that being an “opposition” does not, and should not in any way cause Liberians to turn their backs on their country and wish the worst for it.

“My people, it is not crime or sin to serve your country whenever you can. I say bravo Amb. Weah. You have increased your space in my heart in the interest of Liberia,” he added.

Darius Dillon Seeks Help For University Of Liberia, Receive Certificates of Honor From US Lawmakers

Saturday, 24 November 2012 20:39 | Written by GNN Post |  |  | 

 

Dr. John H. MCcray And A. Darius Dillon

As he strives to anxiously seek further education abroad, Abraham Darius Dillon is also seeking the interest of his home Country, Liberia by prevailing on well meaning Americans come to the resuce of the University of Liberia, and others educational institutions.

 

This became a reality when an invitation was extended him on Monday, November 19th, 2012 by Dr. John H. McCray, Jr., Vice Provost for Urban Programs & Associate Professor of Management Sciences at the University of Rhode Island.

 

prof. nadia saadah demonstrates to darius dillon in the science laboratory at university of rhode island

His one-day official visit to the State of Rhode Island in the United States of America gave him the opportunity to interact officials and Professors including Madam BarbaraKlitz, Associate Professor & of the Graduate Cytopathology Program, Dr. Edward Bozzi, Associate Professor, Chemistry Administration, Biotechnology Management Program, Miss. Nadia Saadeh and Mr. Alan Rothman, all of the University of Rhode Island (Alan Shawn Feinstein Providence Campus).

 

 

darius dillon experiments the laboratory equipment at university of rhode island

During a brief ceremony, Dr. McCray welcomed Mr. Dillon and thanked him for the visit, and indicated his long-standing interest in the history of Liberia, and further recalled how the Late Liberian President William V S Tubman fought for African freedom that witnessed the independence of many African Nations during Tubman’s reign and afterwards.

 

During the visit, according to a dispatch from the United States, Mr. Dillon was taken on a guided tour to see the facilities of the campus.

Being impressed by what he saw, especially the Science Laboratories, Mr. Dillon made a passionate appeal for technical as well financial assistance for institutions of higher learning in Liberia with specific emphasis on the University of Liberia.

Speaking further, Mr. Dillon echoed, “I will not shy away from the fact that these learning facilities are lacking in my country due to our civil conflict which lasted for over fourteen years. As a country and people, resilient in our resolve to ensure we make up for the lost years, we are seeking every needed support and assistance in this direction”, Mr. Dillon told the American Professors.

He also expressed gratitude to officials of the University for the invitation and warm reception, and expressed joy for being in the United States in his pursuit of higher and quality academic as well as professional career.

Echoing his appeal for the University of Liberia, Mr. Dillon stressed, “It would please my heart were you to consider lending some technical support toward the educational sector of my country; especially to the State-owned University of Liberia.

“There are other institutions of higher learning that are contributing and helping to mold the minds of young and upcoming professionals. But, admittedly, these facilities are lacking. We have no state-of-the-art learning equipment such as the ones you have here. We are in dire need. Some of my compatriots lack the opportunity to acquire quality education due to lack of financial support. I appeal that you consider offering some scholarshipsto some deserving students in Liberia to come and have the benefit of acquiring such. We shall forever remain grateful. Please consider my country”, Dillon concluded.

For his part, Dr. McCray then expressed his interest in helping with the educational sector of Liberia and embraced Mr. Dillon’s invitation to visit Liberia to meet with heads of some relevant institutions as a means of working out modalities for technical cooperation between some institutions of Liberia and the University of Rhode Island. He is expected in Liberia early February 2013 at head of a high-profile delegation at which time he will seek to meet particularly with Dr. Emmett Dennis, President of the University of Liberia to foster a partnership between the University of Rhode Island and the University of Liberia. Mr. Dillon assured that he would do his utmost the contact Dr. Dennis and heads of other relevant institutions of higher learning to inform them about Dr. McCray’s impending visit to Liberia.

In a related development, two United States Congressmen of the State of Rhode Island certificated Mr. Abraham Darius Dillon on the same day during his visit. Congressman Jack Reed said he was certificating Mr. Dillon for “Your visit to the State of Rhode Island and your dedication and service to the people of Liberia”. For his part, Congressman Sheldon Whitehouse said “In honor of your advocacy on behalf of the people of Liberia, I am pleased to present you this Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition”. Mr. Dillon expressed delight over the awards and said his motto has always been and remains “Liberia First”. He promised to keep advocating for the people of Liberia as his way of contributing his quota.

Mr. Darius Dillon is pursuing his undergraduate studies at the Strayer University at the Christiana Campus in the State of Delaware, United States of America.

 

“Our Educational Sector Needs Your Help” Liberian Student Pleads With Rhode Island University Professors

Sunday, 25 November 2012 16:02 Michael Roberts +231(0)886646368/rtm4life@gmail.com

 

Darius Dillon, Dr. McCray and Associate Prof. Barbara Klitz in the Science Laboratory at University of Rhode Island

 

RHODE ISLAND/MONROVIA: A Liberian Student studying in the United States, Former Montserrado Senatorial Candidate and political activist, Abraham Darius Dillon has pleaded with two professors of Rhode Island University to lend support to the educational sector of Liberia especially the University of Liberia and other institutions of higher learning.

According to a dispatch from the United States of America, Mr. Dillon made the appeal when he paid a one-day official visit to the state of Rhode Island on Monday, November 19, 2012 at the invitation of Dr. John H. McCray, Jr., Vice Provost for Urban Programs & Associate Professor of Management Sciences at the University of Rhode Island.

The dispatch also furthered that during the visit, Mr. Dillon expressed gratitude to officials of the University for the invitation and warm reception. He expressed joy for being in the United States in his pursuit of higher and quality education as well as professional career. 

“Other officials and Professors on hand to meet Mr. Dillon were Madam Barbara Klitz, Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Graduate Cytopathology Program, Dr. Edward Bozzi, Associate Professor, Chemistry Administration, Biotechnology Management Program, Miss. Nadia Saadeh and Mr. Alan Rothman, all of the University of Rhode Island (Alan Shawn Feinstein Providence Campus),” the dispatch noted.

The US dispatch intoned that considering what the Liberian political activist saw at the university, especially the Science Laboratories, he made a passionate appeal for technical as well as financial assistance for institutions of higher learning in Liberia with specific emphasis on the University of Liberia. 

The dispatch quoted Mr. Dillon as saying: “I will not shy away from the fact that these learning facilities are lacking in my country due to our civil conflict that lasted well over fourteen years. As a country and people, resilient in our resolve to ensure we make up for the lost years, we are seeking every needed support and assistance in this direction. It would please my heart were you to consider lending some technical support toward the educational sector of my country; especially to the State-owned University of Liberia. There are other institutions of higher learning that are contributing and helping to mold the minds of young and upcoming professionals. But, admittedly, these facilities are lacking. We have no state-of-the-art learning equipment such as the ones you have here. We are in dire need. Some of my compatriots lack the opportunity to acquire quality education due to lack of financial support. I appeal that you consider offering some scholarships to some deserving students in Liberia to come and have the benefit of acquiring such. We shall forever remain grateful. Please consider my country.”

For his part, Dr. McCray welcomed Mr. Dillon and commended him for the visit. Dr. McCray indicated that he has had a long-standing interest in the history of Liberia and recalled how the Late Liberian President William V. S. Tubman reportedly fought for freedom of Africa that witnessed the independence of many African Nations during his reign and afterwards. After the brief welcome protocol in Dr. McCray’s office, Mr. Dillon was taken on a guided tour to see the facilities of the campus. 

Dr. McCray then reportedly expressed his interest in helping with the educational sector of Liberia and embraced Mr. Dillon’s invitation to visit Liberia to meet with heads of some relevant institutions as a means of working out modalities for technical cooperation between some institutions of Liberia and the University of Rhode Island. 

The dispatch also disclosed that Dr. McCray is expected in Liberia early February 2013 at head of a high-profile delegation at which time he will seek to meet particularly with Dr. Emmett Dennis, President of the University of Liberia to foster a partnership between the University of Rhode Island and the University of Liberia. Mr. Dillon assured that he would do his utmost the contact Dr. Dennis and heads of other relevant institutions of higher learning to inform them about Dr. McCray’s impending visit to Liberia.

At the same time, two United States Congressmen of the State of Rhode Island certificated Mr. Abraham Darius Dillon on the same day during his visit. Congressman Jack Reed said he was certificating Mr. Dillon for his dedication and service to the people of Liberia”. 

On the other hand, Congressman Sheldon Whitehouse said: “In honor of your advocacy on behalf of the people of Liberia, I am pleased to present you this Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.”

Mr. Dillon, according to the dispatch, expressed delight over the awards and said his motto has always been and remains “Liberia First”. He promised to keep advocating for the people of Liberia as his way of contributing his quota. 

Mr. Darius Dillon is currently pursuing his undergraduate studies at the Strayer University on the Christiana Campus in the State of Delaware, United States of America.
 

Last Updated ( Sunday, 25 November 2012 16:38 )

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Comments (10)

Ralphina Devine25 November 2012 19:50Reply1

Darius Dillion is a young man who has always shown leadership and love his country. I have followed his activities and I am not surprised at his latest moves. Continue being selfless and your reward is not far. BRAVO!

Peter Bemah26 November 2012 03:01Reply1

When I supported Dillon in 2009, in his bid for the Liberian Senate, I did so with no doubt that he could have done better for Montserrado and Liberia in general... His advocacy for social justice and better living standard for the underprivileged, etc., strenghten my resolve to support him any day... I'm not surprised!!!!!!

Robert O'Davis26 November 2012 03:56Reply1

"Mr.Dillion, you have exemplify an attitude of a Nationalist. Liberia and I are proud of you. Remain blessed in your endeavors."

Darius Dillon26 November 2012 04:08Reply0

Thanks to you all for the kind sentiments and commendation. We owe a duty to our country and people. We can do it. "YES, WE CAN".

Moses Owen Browne, Jr26 November 2012 08:45Reply1

Your Reward Is In Glory Dillon!!! 
Keep On The Good Work And Advocacy For The Poor!! 
May God Almighty Continue To Bless You As You Learn New Things!! 

I'm Also Not Too Surprise!!!

Markson Gray26 November 2012 15:49Reply1

Bro Dillion, keep up your focus in seeing Liberia become a different nation in this 21st century. As the Holy Bible states "And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with me, to give every one according to his work." (Rev 22:12) 

Bro AB, your reward is coming soon from the Liberian youth!

Thomas Yarkpawolo26 November 2012 15:57Reply1

Great job dear friend. One does not have to be a Minister to engage in such positive minded venture. You have just disgraced the million of critics sitting in diaspora and know nothing but to condemn and lambast others as if to say they too cannpt emulate your good example. This is leadership mehn................!

Alfred Doeplah28 November 2012 04:58Reply1

Abraham Darius Dilloin is the man of our time. Continue to do what you do best, my friend. Advocate for your country selflessly. This is what you are known and loved for. Your campaign for GENERATIONAL CHANGE will come to pass.

Genevieve Freeman-Massa04 December 2012 16:15Reply1

Education! Education! Yes this is the primary solution to all of the problems overflowing in Liberia. Thanks Dillon for the awareness.

Jarvis Douglas14 January 2013 05:29Reply0

This is a laudable effort....and it tells a lot about the man behind the appeal. Bravo Hon. Abraham Darius Dillon. You are a visionary with your country at heart.