Liberia's Defence Minister Resigns Amid Soldiers' Wives Protest, President Responds
Liberia's newly appointed Defence Minister, Prince C. Johnson, tendered his resignation just 10 days after assuming office, in the wake of protests led by soldiers' wives, the presidency confirmed on Monday.
This abrupt resignation marks the first major political challenge for Liberia's recently inaugurated President Joseph Boakai, who took office at the end of January. According to a statement from the presidency, President Boakai accepted Johnson's resignation, citing the need to address the ongoing political and civil disturbances sparked by the soldiers' wives' protest.
In response to Johnson's resignation, President Boakai swiftly appointed General Geraldine Janet George as the interim Defence Minister.
The protest, organized by wives of Liberian soldiers, resulted in roadblocks being set up near the capital, Monrovia, and in other parts of the country, prompting the cancellation of National Army Day celebrations. The demonstrators aired grievances ranging from inadequate salaries and pensions to electricity shortages and corruption within the armed forces. They specifically demanded the resignation of the Defence Minister, attributing salary reductions for returning soldiers to his tenure.
President Boakai, after meeting with the protesting women, pledged to address their concerns by establishing a commission and taking immediate steps to improve conditions within the armed forces. He also ordered the removal of roadblocks and initiated measures such as restoring electricity and providing free education at a school within the Edward Binyah Kesselly barracks.
In a statement, President Boakai's team emphasized his commitment to resolving long-standing issues within the armed forces and urged calm among citizens as the government works to address their grievances.
The swift response from President Boakai underscores the gravity of the situation and his administration's determination to address the concerns raised by soldiers' families, signaling early challenges for the new government.
