The President of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, has sounded an alarm over what he describes as“strategic security vulnerability,” Liberia’s military manpower crisis.
Speaking during a ceremonial promotion of Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) officers on Wednesday, Cllr. Varmah called on the Government of Liberia to dramatically increase budgetary support to the AFL, warning that a country of over 5.2 million citizens cannot be adequately protected by an army of less than 2,000 soldiers.
“This is not only a security gap but a strategic vulnerability,” Cllr. Varmah declared to an audience of military leaders, government officials, diplomats, and civil society members.
“We are placing an impossible burden on a small, under-resourced force, and expecting them to meet the constitutional mandate of defending our sovereignty.”
Cllr. Varmah’s comments come at a time of rising insecurity across West Africa, where military coups, insurgencies, and transnational crime continue to destabilize parts of the region.
He stressed that Liberia’s peace and democratic gains since the civil war must not be taken for granted, and that national security institutions must be adequately supported to maintain internal stability.
“In an increasingly unstable regional environment… Liberia must invest now in the strength and readiness of its armed forces,” he said.
The LNBA President also commended the AFL for its discipline and professionalism, noting that its operational effectiveness has remained commendable despite personnel constraints and limited resources.
He underscored that Liberia’s soldiers have shown unwavering loyalty to the country, even under challenging conditions.
Legislative and Budgetary Action Urged
Varmah called on the Legislature, Ministry of Defense, and budget authorities to prioritize the defense sector in the upcoming national budget.
The Bar President stressed the need for concrete policy interventions and fiscal commitments that reflect the seriousness of national security needs.
“No matter how committed and well-trained, a small force cannot reasonably be expected to meet the demands required to safeguard the Republic,” he noted.
He added, will continue to advocate for reforms that ensure national security, good governance, and rule of law are strengthened through responsible public investment.
The event at BTC also celebrated the promotion of several AFL officers, whose rise in rank was hailed as a testament to their dedication and service.
The ceremony was attended by senior members of the AFL, officials from the Ministry of Defense, lawmakers, and members of the diplomatic community.
The moment provided a platform not only to honor military achievements but also to reignite public dialogue around the future of Liberia’s defense architecture.
In a related development, the LNBA has commended President Joseph N. Boakai for nominating Cllr. Boakai Kanneh as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia.
The Bar described the nominee as a respected legal mind and said it looks forward to his confirmation and contribution to the country’s judicial system.
“The LNBA reaffirms its commitment to working with all branches of government to promote an effective, accessible, and accountable justice system,” said a statement signed by Cllr. Elisha T.J. Forkeyoh, LNBA’s National Secretary General.
The LNBA pledged to remain a key partner in protecting the rule of law and defending Liberia’s democratic institutions as the nation continues to rebuild and reform.
