Monrovia -Grand Bassa County Electoral District #1 Representative Isaac Bannie, has submitted a draft bill seeking to amend and repeal Section 7.2 of the New National Defense Act of 2008, aimed at expanding access to service in the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL).โโ
The proposed legislation, introduced during the first day sitting of the Special Session of the House of Representatives of Liberia, seeks to increase manpower capacity to strengthen national defense, promote inclusiveness and equal opportunity, and align recruitment criteria with current national realities while maintaining professionalism and adherence to human rights standards.โโ
According to the draft amendment, Section 7.2 would be revised to allow all qualified Liberian citizens between the ages of 18 to 35 to enlist in the AFL, with a minimum educational requirement of a 7th grade level.
Applicants must also meet all professional, medical, and fitness standards established by the AFL.โโThe bill further mandates the Ministry of National Defense of Liberia to establish a vetting committee to ensure that prospective recruits have not been involved in human rights abuses or other violations.
โโIt also emphasizes that the AFL must reflect the national character of Liberia at all times.โโAdditionally, the Ministry of National Defense, in collaboration with the Command Authority of the AFL, will be responsible for the effective implementation of the Act upon passage.โโ
Rep. Bannie noted that the proposed amendment will provide an opportunity for patriotic Liberians desirous of serving their country to be recruited, thereby strengthening the capacity and readiness of the nationโs military.โโ
Following its submission, the bill has been forwarded to the appropriate committee for thorough scrutiny and consideration before being reported back to Plenary.
