AFL Clears Sapo Park, Recruitment Planned -Defense Ministry Outlines Security Agenda

MONROVIA – Security sector reform in Liberia continues to evolve as the government balances environmental protection, national defense, and institutional accountability. The Armed Forces of Liberia’s recent operation in Sapo National Park has drawn attention not only for its environmental implications, but also for its national security significance. Addressing the public, officials at the Ministry of National Defense outlined progress in restoring order in protected areas while acknowledging internal challenges within the military. At the same time, the government is preparing for a new round of recruitment aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces amid long-standing infrastructure and personnel constraints. As THE ANALYST’S GEORGE C. FLOMO reports, these developments, coupled with preparations for Armed Forces Day, seem to reflect an effort to professionalize the military while reinforcing public confidence in national security institutions.

The Ministry of National Defense has confirmed that the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) have successfully cleared Sapo National Park of illegal activities, while outlining plans for the 2026 military recruitment exercise and a series of activities marking the 69th Anniversary of Armed Forces Day.

Speaking during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing last Thursday, Spencer G.N. Leeco, Deputy Minister for Operations at the Ministry of National Defense, said the operation at Sapo National Park was authorized by the Government of Liberia to address what he described as serious environmental and national security threats.

According to Minister Leeco, illegal mining, poaching of protected wildlife, and the presence of unauthorized foreign nationals within the park posed risks that extended beyond environmental degradation to national security concerns.

“These activities did not only threaten our rainforest and rich biodiversity, but had far-reaching national security implications,” Minister Leeco said.

He disclosed that the park has now been cleared of illegal occupants and that AFL personnel remain deployed in the area to maintain security and prevent renewed encroachment.

However, Minister Leeco confirmed that an initial platoon of 45 soldiers has been recalled from the park following allegations of compromise and a recent shooting incident. He said the affected soldiers, particularly their commanders, are currently under investigation, and emphasized that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Turning to recruitment, Minister Leeco announced that preparations are underway for the 2026 Armed Forces of Liberia recruitment exercise, which was initially scheduled to begin in February 2026. He explained that the process has been delayed due to the non-release of funds but assured the public that recruitment would commence once financing is secured.

Outlining eligibility criteria, he said applicants must be Liberian citizens between the ages of 18 and 35, possess a high school diploma or WAEC certificate or be enrolled in college, and meet physical and mental fitness requirements. He added that applicants must present valid police clearance, recent medical certificates, proof of citizenship, and passport-sized photographs.

Minister Leeco emphasized that recruitment will be conducted across four regions of the country, with designated testing centers in Monrovia, Tubmanburg, Gbarnga, Zwedru, and Harper. He stressed that the process is free of charge and warned the public against individuals demanding money or claiming to offer recruitment recommendations.

“There is no recommendation business in this process,” he cautioned.

Addressing the situation at Camp Ramrod, also known as the 72nd Military Barracks, Minister Leeco said the AFL acted on January 19, 2026, to reclaim the facility by issuing a 14-day ultimatum to illegal occupants and clearly demarcating the land. He disclosed that while the total area of the barracks is 37 acres, the Ministry exercised flexibility by reclaiming only 14 acres following prolonged negotiations.

According to him, the eviction exercise has been peaceful and conducted with respect for the rule of law and human dignity, with AFL personnel assisting affected families to relocate to areas including RIA, Careysburg, and Duala.

Providing historical context, Minister Leeco explained that attempts to reclaim the barracks date back to the administration of former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and were revisited under former President George Manneh Weah, but were repeatedly delayed due to appeals for more time from occupants.

He said further engagements were held after the current administration took office, including agreements to allow the academic year to conclude before relocation. Despite these concessions, he noted, occupants failed to vacate after additional notices issued in 2024 and 2025.

Minister Leeco said the Camp Ramrod operation is part of a broader effort to reclaim military installations nationwide, including Camp West and Camp Jones, in order to address congestion and improve accommodation for AFL personnel.

On Armed Forces Day, observed annually on February 11, Minister Leeco outlined a week-long program of activities marking the 69th Anniversary. These include memorial runs, parade rehearsals, the issuance of newly designed uniforms, a national security symposium, religious services, sporting events, a nationwide cleanup campaign, and medical outreach in Margibi County.

He said the official Armed Forces Day parade will be held at the Barclay Training Center, with delegations expected from regional and international partners. The celebrations will culminate with an invitation-only Armed Forces Day Ball.

Minister Leeco said the activities are intended to honor serving personnel, remember fallen heroes, and reinforce public appreciation for the role of the Armed Forces in national security.