Monrovia – Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon has launched a blistering attack on sections of the Liberian media, accusing some journalists of engaging in what he described as “blackmail” rather than upholding professional standards.
The Senator’s comments, made in a strongly worded statement, have sparked concerns over the growing tension between Mr John Kollie and Senator Abraham Darius Dillion.
Senator Dillon singled out veteran broadcaster John Kollie, saying, “John Kollie, you talked complete nonsense. I am coming for you this week. I am waiting for all the media people in this country. If you do not want class reloaded, follow the ABC of journalism and not y’all blackmailing things that y’all can be doing.” He further warned that his office would not “reward blackmailers,” making it clear that no apology would be offered for his remarks.
Dillon went on to issue a stern caution to members of the government allegedly providing financial or logistical support to certain journalists. “Our own from within this government, if we catch you sponsoring some of these blackmailers, we will catch you. We are watching,” he warned, suggesting that his criticisms were not only directed at media practitioners but also at those who may be enabling them.
The Senator’s outburst comes amid ongoing debates over press freedom, accountability, and the ethics of journalism in Liberia. While his comments have been met with support from some who share his concerns about media practices, others have condemned them as an attack on free speech, warning that such rhetoric could undermine the role of the press in holding leaders accountable.
