MONROVIA, LIBERIA-President Joseph Boakai has appointed Brigadier General Geraldine George as Acting Defense Minister.

General George replaces Retired Brigadier General Prince C. Johnson, III, who resigned from his post as Defense Minister on Monday, February 12, 2024.

President Boakai made the appointment in a nationwide address on the current state of security of the Country.

The AFL Commander-In-Chief described Retired General Johnson, III, as a true patriot who believes in the peace and security of the nation above personal interest.

President Boakai also lauded the former Army General for his sacrificial services, dedication, and commitment to the nation and its people over the years.

At the same time, President Boakai has set up a special investigative team to probe the grievances raised by wives of AFL personnel, mandating it to report the findings of the investigation in two weeks.

In his special nationwide address on Monday, February 12, 2024, the AFL Commander-In-Chief also activated the Board of Inquiry to probe the alleged discharge of AFL personnel for serious crimes.

President Boakai said:” The rebranded AFL has over the years served as a source of national pride, and should not carry on acts that will derail the trust and confidence of the Army.”

The Liberian Leader emphasized that the initial actions were intended to restore calm, following several days of protests by the wives of AFL personnel.

Meanwhile, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia has accepted the resignation of Defense Minister Prince C. Johnson, III.

Mr. Johnson said:” My decision is based on my patriotic duty to preserve the peace and security of the State, amidst the current political and civil disturbances orchestrated by women believed to be wives of servicemen of the Army.”

According to an Executive Mansion release issued on Monday, February 12, 2024, President Boakai expressed gratitude to the Defense Minister for his invaluable services to the Country and described him as a patriot.

The Liberian Leader also instructed the Army to ensure that all blockades set up by the aggrieved women were removed, as the Liberian Government looked into their grievances.