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President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, has tersely reminded soldiers of the new army and Coast Guard personnel against participation in politics.

Speaking on Armed Forces Day Saturday against the subtle involvement in politics by soldiers of the new AFL since its formation, she warned that soldiers will be held accountable for their actions and statements under the Uniformed Code of Military Justice.

“To our soldiers and Coast Guard personnel, I want to make something very clear to you: You are governed by provisions under the UCMJ as well as Army Regulations and other military regulations.  You shall be held accountable for your actions and statements within the framework of the UCMJ,” the commander in chief stressed.

In a goodwill message at the 55th anniversary of the AFL, the President emphasized the importance of chapter 8:1 of the new National Defense Act (NDA) of 2008, obliging “all members of the AFL to owe their full and undivided allegiance to the Republic of Liberia. They shall take no action or permit any activity that is contrary or injurious to the constitution, the laws and people of Liberia.”

She reminded the soldiers that “loyalty must be without doubt and unequivocal and personnel of the AFL must also learn to respect and be subject to the principle of the civilian control of the military.”

“As can be seen,” the C-I-C added, “the National Defense Act is unequivocal about the demand of the State for loyalty from its men and women in arms.  There is therefore no two ways about it.  Your loyalty must be without doubt and unequivocal.  Personnel of the AFL must also learn to respect and be subject to the principle of the civilian control of the military. This is paramount for sustaining our democracy and supporting our development agenda.

“Once again, you are not politicians.  You are required (under chapter 8.3 of the NDA) to remain politically neutral. As citizens, all members of the AFL shall have the right to a secret vote, but in all other ways they shall be politically neutral and shall not join, support or participate in the activities of any political party or similar organizations.”

During the program, where soldiers exhibited military prowess and tactics, President Sirleaf acknowledged assistance from many countries as well as local and international partners toward training of the new AFL.

She thanked US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield for every ounce of support the American government has given and continues to give toward the development of the new army.

The president commended UNMIL Force Commander, Maj.-Gen. Muhammad Khalid his input during the recent AFL Symposium themed:  “Enhancing Military Capabilities and Professionalism, Prospects and Challenges Facing the Armed Forces of Liberia in a Democratic Liberia.”

She said his presentation generated further momentum and spurred a challenging dialogue in light of UNMIL’s transition.

Meanwhile, the President assured government’s commitment to improve and expand existing facilities for soldiers and their families.