By: Lasana S. Kanneh- Political Advisor
This summary highlights Senator Dillon’s contributions and participation in the first session of the 55th Liberian Senate, focusing on his achievements in lawmaking, oversight, and representation. Consistent with previous years, Senator Abe Darius Dillon has once again demonstrated unmatched performance in these areas. While opinions may vary, the evidence speaks for itself.
Lawmaking:
~Criminal Procedures Law Amendment: Senator Dillon introduced a bill to amend Chapter 4, Sections 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4 of the Criminal Procedures Law, extending the statute of limitations from 5 years to 15 years.
~Salary Caps/cut for Lawmakers: He reintroduced a bill to set lawmakers’ salaries and benefits at a maximum of $5,000, aligning with Article 36 of the Liberian Constitution, which grants the Legislature authority over lawmakers’ remuneration.
~War and Economic Crimes Court: Senator Dillon signed and endorsed a resolution advocating for the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court.
~Cancellation of MedTech Contract: Following an investigation into the National Port Authority’s challenges with CTN and Med-Tech services, Senator Dillon recommended cancelling the Med-Tech contract due to non-compliance and inadequate service delivery.
~Concerns Over Tenure Law: Senator Dillon raised concerns regarding the Senate’s decision to strip tenure from certain institutions while maintaining it for others. He sought updates on the status of the Tenure Law bill, which was found to be stalled in a legislative conference Committee.
Oversight
~Minister of Labour Invitation: Senator Dillon wrote to the Senate plenary requesting the Minister of Labour’s presence to address the issuance of over 8,000 work permits to foreign nationals, which led to an investigation by the Senate Committee on Labour.
~Inaugural Ceremony Protocol: Expressing disappointment at the disorganization of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s inaugural ceremony, Senator Dillon called for improved protocol at state events, emphasizing the importance of the President’s address at the State of the Nation Address.
~Inviting the LTA (Regulatory Authority) to address the reduction of Data packages. The GSM (mobile network) companies removed their affordable Data packages, which prompted a serious public outcry and led to a citizen protest. Against this backdrop, Senator Dillon raised the issue and impressed upon his colleagues to seek an immediate intervention into the matter.
~Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) Management: Senator Dillon invited LEC management to address concerns over poor service delivery. He criticized the management’s performance and highlighted a conflict of interest related to Monie Captan serving as both CEO and Chairman of the Board.
~Domestic Debt List Advocacy: Senator Dillon consistently advocated for the domestic debt list, voting against a $43 million budget until it was provided. Although the list was eventually submitted, he maintained his opposition due to the delay.
~NASSCORP Vehicle Purchases: Alongside Senator Amara Konneh, Senator Dillon wrote to invite Minister of State Sylvester Grigsby and NASSCORP management to explain the unconventional and costly vehicle purchases made during the inauguration.
~Pre-Pay Meters for Government Institutions: Senator Dillon recommended that LEC issue pre-pay meters to government institutions to mitigate public debt and improve operational efficiency.
Representation;
~Korea-Africa Summit: As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs, Senator Dillon accompanied President Boakai to the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, advocating for support in key sectors such as education, agriculture, health, technology, and infrastructure.
~Legislators Forum in China: Senator Dillon participated in the 2024 Legislators Forum for Friendly Exchanges in Shanghai, where he delivered a speech on global security and lasting peace.
~Diplomatic Relations with Austria: He joined the Minister of Foreign Affairs in a delegation to the UN Headquarters in Vienna to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Liberia and Austria.
~UN General Assembly: Senator Dillon was part of the President’s delegation at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he delivered the “Vote of Thanks” during the launch of Liberia’s campaign for a non-member seat on the UN Security Council.
Senator Dillon’s proactive approach and robust advocacy throughout the first session of the 55th Liberian Senate are commendable. His legislative efforts have significantly impacted various national issues.
In response to claims of other senators outperforming Senator Dillon, it is important to assess their legislative performances objectively. Senator Dillon’s record speaks for itself: he proposed the most bills, participated in the most debates, and exercised oversight more than any other senator during the first Session of the 55th Liberian Senate.
As we look ahead, we can expect an even more dynamic, firm and robust Senator Dillon in the second session of the 55th Liberian Senate, starting in January of 2025″
