Monrovia- Senator Darius Dillon of Montserrado County urges religious institutions to lead the charge in denouncing corruption in Liberian society. He claimed it was an endorsement of crime when some churches had a practice of recognizing people whose wealth was in doubt and received substantial financial donations from them.
On Friday, December 9, 2022, in Monrovia, the Liberia Council of Churches hosted a program in honor of International Anti-Corruption Day, and Senator Dillon gave the keynote address. The senator for Montserrado County urged the audience to demand honesty from public servants because they are funded by taxes collected from common citizens.
According to him, the churches in Liberia should thrive for integrity in all aspects of their existence because the country is facing an integrity deficit.
“The church must now lead by example in honesty and adhere to its own moral creed or there is no distinction between belief and behavior. It is now appropriate for the church to begin fostering a culture of integrity in society. You cannot advocate against stealing while accepting sizable gifts from those with undeniable wealth since open criticism is preferable to covert partnerships with corrupt public officials.
Senator Dillon noted that the church must reclaim its moral authority in the fight against corruption in Liberia, and this can start with some churches ceasing to write officials merely because these people have the means of making significant contributions with undeniable wealth and ignoring the selfless services of their own members simply because they are poor.
He urged everyone to work together to fight corruption, pleading with religious leaders to include anti-corruption lessons in their weekly sermons, and to use the opportunity for repentance rather than prosperity.
Reverend Doctor Samuel Reeves, president of the Liberia Council of Churches, demanded a report on the money used for the bicentennial celebrations planned by the Liberian government. He asserted that the council would continue to speak out against corruption in Liberian society and urged solidarity among Liberians to combat this threat to stability, security, and growth.
According to Rev. Dr. Reeves, corruption has a significant negative impact on education, health, and human capacity growth, which hinders peace, national progress, and security.
“Because corruption is entangled with conflict, instability, and political upheaval, it has eroded human rights and every aspect of our society over time.”
The LCC President stated that corruption was a contributing factor in the protracted battle that resulted in the deaths of over 250,000 people.
“Corruption has considerably weakened the ability of institutions of government to carry out their legislative mandate, undermined the rule of law, and made a significant portion of the population vulnerable.”
He claims that during the Liberian crisis, some people utilized corporate funds to support arm conflicts in Liberia.
“Maintaining the country’s peace depends on promoting transparency and fortifying governmental institutions.”
A cross-section of leaders from the Christian denominations in Liberia attended the event, which had the theme “Recover with Integrity.”
Reported by: Augustine Octavius
Contact: +231777463963
Email: augustineoctavius@gmail.com
