- In a move that has sparked widespread condemnation, the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) demolished the popular "Help Yourself Entertainment Center" and several neighboring properties at 72nd Junction, Paynesville, despite recent intervention by the 55th National Legislature aimed at resolving the month-long land dispute.
AFL soldiers carried out the demolition on Friday, igniting outrage among residents and business owners near the 72nd Military Barracks. Many described the action as excessive and accused the government of failing to protect law-abiding citizens.
Frances Morsay, owner of the "Help Yourself" Entertainment Center, valued at around US$500,000, was left devastated. "We do not have law in this country. This is lawlessness," she told reporters, her voice trembling with emotion. "The Speaker and other lawmakers assured me they would give me time, but instead the AFL destroyed my investments."
Morsay further accused House Speaker Richard Koon and other legislators of misleading her into believing negotiations were ongoing. She also criticized Rep. Priscilla A. Cooper of Montserrado County District #5 for failing to secure an extension before the demolition.
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Other residents echoed her sentiments, calling the demolition unjust and destabilizing. "This government has fractured the peace. When the Army acts without restraint, who can stop them? Not the Speaker, not anyone," said one aggrieved resident.
Another, Flomo Dweh, lamented the loss of his home and expressed disappointment in the government. "We voted for a better Liberia. We trusted President Joseph Boakai, and now our homes are being destroyed."
The controversy follows an AFL announcement on January 20, 2026, that the military would reclaim properties it considers part of barracks and military installations nationwide. Residents have called for compensation or relocation support, citing eminent domain.
Many dwellers, especially around Camp Ramrod Military Barracks, insist they hold legal land deeds predating the barracks' 1975 construction. Some, like the "Help Yourself" management, say they leased the land from the Smith family as early as 1960.
The demolition has reignited debate about land governance, property rights, and the military's role in civilian disputes.
Morsay has appealed to both the government and international partners for intervention, stressing the devastation to her business and employees. Residents say they are considering legal action as the community grapples with the fallout.
