Sinoe Senator Accuses Dillon’s Apology to Weah of Political Deception

Monrovia – Sinoe County Senator Cllr. Augustine Chea has sharply criticized Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon’s recent apology to former President George Weah, calling it “deceptive” and politically motivated. Dillon’s admission of fault over past criticisms of Weah’s private jet usage has sparked heated debate, with Chea accusing him of insincerity and opportunism.

In a social media post titled Confronting the Guilt of Deception: The Case of the Apology of Senator Dillon, Senator Chea labeled the apology a calculated move to manipulate public perception. Quoting philosopher Hannah Arendt, Chea remarked, “Truthfulness has never been counted among political virtues, and lies have always been regarded as justifiable tools in political dealings.” He argued that Dillon’s apology lacked genuine remorse, describing it as a “clever attempt” to distract from criticism of the Boakai administration’s similar actions.

Chea added, “[Dillon] does not have the spine or balls to criticize President Boakai over his use of a private aircraft as he did with former President Weah. So, the deceptive thing to do is to say that he was wrong for criticizing former President Weah.”

Dillon’s Apology Sparks Controversy

Dillon’s apology, delivered during his appearance on OK Conversation, marked a significant reversal from his earlier stance. During the 2023 opposition campaign, Dillon and other Unity Party figures harshly criticized Weah for using private jets, alleging misuse of public funds. However, Dillon admitted on the program, “We did not understand the constraints and reasons for using private jets. I want to publicly apologize to President Weah for ranting loosely from an uninformed position.” He also advocated for Liberia to procure a presidential aircraft as a practical solution.

This apology comes as the Boakai-Koung administration faces similar criticism for its use of private jets. President Joseph Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung have been seen frequently boarding private aircraft, leading to accusations of hypocrisy from the public and political opponents.

Chea’s Broader Critique

Senator Chea dismissed Dillon’s apology as a “face-saving adventure” aimed at shielding the Boakai administration from scrutiny. He described it as “deception and political chicanery,” claiming it was driven by Dillon’s declining public credibility. Chea further linked the apology to Dillon’s history of credibility issues, referencing his 2021 admission of lying about traveling business class, which tarnished his self-proclaimed image as the “light” in Liberian politics.

Public Reactions Remain Divided

The apology has triggered mixed reactions among Liberians. While some have commended Dillon for his humility, others question its timing and authenticity. Critics have accused him of employing the same political tactics he once denounced. “We trusted him as the light in our politics, but now we see the same tactics he condemned,” one critic said.

Dillon, however, defended his actions as a sign of personal growth. “In good conscience, I admit my wrongs to correct them. This doesn’t mean I’ll lie again in the future,” he stated during the radio interview. As the debate continues, Dillon’s apology remains a polarizing issue in Liberian politics.