New Defense Minister Resigns Following Nationwide Protests by Army Wives
By: Laymah Kollie
Monrovia -February 12,2024: Amidst numerous protests by aggrieved Army wives against the confirmation of Maj. Gen. Prince Charles Johnson, the Defense Minister on today resigned his post. According to the General, his resignation is intended to safeguard the peace and stability of the country.
Gen. Johnson Resignation comes two days after his confirmation by the Liberian Senate to serve as Defense Minister for the country.
Prior to his confirmation, there has been series of protests by women believed to be wives of Army personnel in the country. The women earlier petitioned the Liberian Senate to reject the confirmation of Gen. Johnson after the President’s nomination.
The Wives of Army men took to the streets early Monday morning February 12,2024 setting up road blocks at main entry points into the Country’s Capital, Monrovia.
The numerous protestations across the country led to the President, Joseph Nyumah Boakai cancelling the celebration of the Arm Forces Day of Liberia slated for February 12,2024.
Their actions led to the former Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Maj. Gen. Prince Charles Johnson resignation late Monday.
In his resignation letter, the Minister of National Defense indicated that due to the current political and civil disturbances occasioned by the protest of women believed to be wives of service men, he has made the decision to resign and preserve the peace and security of the State.
A statement from the Executive Mansion indicated the acceptance of the Defense Minister resignation by President Boakai. The President appreciated General Johnson for his immense services to the Country while describing him as a patriot.
“ The President of the Republic of Liberia and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., has received and accepted a letter of resignation from the recently confirmed Minister of National Defense, Mr. Prince C. Johnson.
The President expressed gratitude to Minister Johnson for his invaluable service to the country and described him as a patriot”
The President has instructed the Army to ensure all those impeding the free movement of people and vehicles through actions that blocked major thoroughfares across the country to immediately remove themselves and allow the Government to resolve their grievances.
Meanwhile, according to Executive Mansion release , President Joseph Nyumah Boakai is expected to address the nation this evening.
“The President will address the nation this evening”
Maj. Johnson has served the Armed Forces of Liberia for 18years. In 2018, he took on the post as Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia up till 2024 before he was retired and nominated to serve the Ministry of Defense.
