Residents affected by the recent eviction exercise at the Ramrod Military Barracks, popularly known as the 72nd Barracks in Paynesville, are appealing to the Government of Liberia for assistance to enable them to resettle.
The affected residents, many of whom say they have lived in the barracks area for decades, told reporters that they have been left homeless following the eviction and are now struggling to cope with the sudden displacement.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, the residents called on the government to provide compensation or resettlement support to help them relocate to designated areas and rebuild their lives.
The eviction exercise was carried out after personnel of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), on Monday, January 19, 2026, ordered the immediate evacuation of civilians from the Ramrod Military Barracks.
The action followed a 14-day ultimatum issued by the AFL, which expired on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
According to the AFL, the eviction was intended to reclaim legitimate military barracks and reserve accommodation space for new army recruits as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the Armed Forces of Liberia.
However, the affected residents say the exercise has placed severe financial strain on their families.
Many explained that they lack the resources to resettle smoothly and that the situation has disrupted their livelihoods, access to shelter, and other basic services.
They stressed that government intervention—particularly in the form of compensation or structured resettlement support—would greatly assist them in managing their family affairs and continuing basic life activities.
The residents are therefore appealing for a humane, inclusive, and people-centered approach to the resettlement process.
