Monrovia — The Ministry of National Defense has clarified that recent spontaneous statements made by "few soldiers' of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) on April 10, 2008 at the Edward Binyah Kesselly Barracks of the 23rd Infantry Brigade, on the issues of housing and food was unfortunate.

According to a release, the ministry emphasized that the views of few soldiers do not represent those of the Armed Forces of Liberia.

"This personal statement by few soldiers does not portray any lack of confidence in the level of training provided by the international partners in our attempt to build a capable and professional military," the release indicated.

It further said the statement does not diminish the level of logistical support being provided by the government, and added that prior to the concerns of the AFL soldiers, issues were being addressed by the Ministry.

The release maintained that during an emergency meeting held at the Ministry, Defense Minister Brownie J. Samukai set up a Board of Inquiry to look into what prompted the statement by the soldiers as well as determine whether any provisions of the Uniform Code of Military Justice have been breached.

The Board of Inquiry is being chaired by the Deputy Minister of Defense for Administration and includes the office of the Command Officer in Charge, one Company Commander from the 1st Infantry Battalion, Senior Military Advisor to the Minister of National Defense and the Assistant Minister of Public Affairs.

The release indicated that the Board of Inquiry has been mandated to submit its report to the Minister of National Defense by Friday, April 17, 2008

Meanwhile, Minister Samukai over the weekend ordered AFL soldiers for a general muster at which time he addressed the civilian-military relations, issues pertaining to their general welfare, and their obligations under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

Minister Samukai has also assured the public of his unwavering commitment to build a dedicated, disciplined and professional military devoid of personal and selfish interest.