By Jacqueline Dennis
MONROVIA – The President of the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, has appealed to the Government of Liberia to significantly increase budgetary allocation to the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), citing concerns over the military’s current manpower capacity.
Speaking at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. During a ceremony marking the promotion of several AFL officers, Cllr. Varmah expressed serious concern over the country’s limited military strength in the face of growing national and regional security challenges.
He said it is unacceptable that a sovereign country with a population of over 5.2 million people is served by an army of barely 2,000 soldiers. It is not only a security gap but a strategic vulnerability that must be urgently addressed through concrete policy and fiscal interventions.
He praised the AFL for its discipline, professionalism, and continued service to the nation. Still, he warned that no matter how committed and well-trained, a small force cannot reasonably be expected to meet the constitutional and operational demands required to safeguard the Republic.
The LNBA President called on the Liberian Legislature, the Ministry of Defense, and the national budgetary authorities to prioritize the defense sector in forthcoming fiscal cycles. He emphasized that Liberia’s post-conflict reconstruction and peace-building gains could be threatened if security institutions remain under-resourced.
According to him, in an increasingly unstable regional environment, where terrorism, transnational crimes, and political unrest are on the rise, Liberia must invest now in the strength and readiness of its armed forces,” Clir. Varmah urged. “The peace we enjoy today cannot be taken for granted.”
The LNBA, as part of its advocacy for good governance, rule of law, and national security, remains committed to supporting reforms and public awareness efforts that highlight the need for sustainable investment in national defense infrastructure.
The BTC event was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, high-ranking military officers, and civil society stakeholders. The ceremony also celebrated the professional achievements of several AFL officers whose promotions were a testament to their dedication and service.
In a related development, the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has commended President Joseph N. Boakai for the nomination of Cllr. Boakai Kanneh as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia. The LNBA reaffirms its commitment to working with all branches of government to promote an effective, accessible, and accountable justice system. As always, the Bar remains a firm partner in protecting the rule of law and defending the integrity of Liberia’s democratic institutions.
