Liberia’s Defense Minister resigns 10 days after appointment

The Defence Minister of Liberia Major General Prince C. Johnson has resigned only 10 days after being appointed, following a protest by soldiers’ wives, according to the presidency. Liberia’s defense minister, Maj. Gen. Prince Charles Johnson resigned his position, citing the civil and political disobediences occasioned by the protests of women believed to be wives of the men in arms. Maj. Gen. Johnson said he took the decision to preserve the peace and security of the country.

This marks the first political crisis for Liberia’s new president, Joseph Boakai, who took office at the end of January. Boakai has accepted the resignation and named General Geraldine Janet George as the provisional replacement.

The soldiers’ wives set up roadblocks near the capital and in other parts of the country to air their grievances, which included low salaries, lack of social security, and corruption within the armed forces. The president has promised to address their concerns and has ordered the removal of the roadblocks.