The high command of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has voiced increasing concern over the potential hardship that service members and their families may face due to a delay in salary disbursements.
This news has raised alarms within the ranks, especially in light of previous instances of unrest related to service conditions.
In a memo issued on Wednesday, October 30, the Chief of Staff of the army urged leaders of various units to calm their personnel while they work diligently with authorities to expedite salary payments.
“Unit commanders should inform their respective personnel of the situation and that personnel are to continue being patient and exhibit the highest level of professionalism,” the memo stated.
The leadership emphasized the importance of maintaining morale and stability within the force during these challenging times.
Historically, the Armed Forces of Liberia, which consists of approximately 3,000 active-duty personnel, has been among the first groups to receive payment from the state in previous administrations.
This recent lag in salary disbursement has rekindled fears reminiscent of earlier tensions. In February of this year, the army staged a mutiny against President Joseph Boakai due to poor service conditions, an event that ultimately led to the resignation of the then Chief of Staff, who was later appointed Defense Minister by the President.
The context behind the army’s unrest is deeply rooted in Liberia’s turbulent history. Following the civil wars from 1989 to 2003, the AFL was significantly downsized and restructured.
The nation has since faced challenges in maintaining an effective and well-funded military capable of safeguarding national interests. With salaries typically regarded as a priority, delays in payments can exacerbate existing issues of morale and readiness within the forces.
AFL plays a crucial role in post-war stability The current situation has elicited responses not only from military leadership but also from community leaders, who underline the necessity of ensuring that service members and their families are not unduly affected.
