By Alfred Kollie, alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
The Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has clarified that its ongoing live recruitment process is not intended to shame applicants, following growing public criticism over the exercise.
On Monday, the AFL launched phase one of its recruitment drive on live television, a move that sparked mixed reactions across the country.
While some members of the public described the approach as unprofessional, others argued that the process particularly the live reading segment is necessary despite the evident struggles of some applicants.
Speaking in a phone interview with the private-run OK FM in Monrovia on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, Lt. Col. Stephen Tarplah, an AFL officer, defended the exercise.
He emphasized that the live reading component is essential in ensuring that recruits can communicate effectively at all times.
Col. Tarplah further noted that the military will not yield to public pressure to halt the live screening process.
However, the AFL official added that additional measures will be introduced to improve the exercise.
Despite concerns about poor reading skills among some applicants, he revealed that approximately 98 percent of participants have performed well, describing the overall outcome as impressive.