Soldiers of the Armed Forces of Liberia have recalled to barracks their spouses who for days openly defied the Commander-in-Chief’s decision to appoint the Chief of Staff as the country’s new Minister of National Defense.
The soldiers backing of their wives into setting roadblocks and preventing free movement of people and goods via main trade routes across the country demonstrates explicit approval of the military unhappy over the appointment of now retired General Prince C. Johnson as Minister of National Defense.
The protesting spouse group petitioning Senators to block the ex-army chief confirmation. Protest escalated when the Senate did find merit in the complaint and cleared Johnson to take on the role. Every plea from the President and Vice President to cut off the demonstration landed on deaf ears.
General Johnson stepped down as Defense Minister on Monday after the country’s first military munity since the end of the civil war more than two decades ago.
Under the banner “Army Wives Association of Liberia” the group accused the General of corruption and administrative mal practices that have contributed to the suffering state of the country’s military.
Before his resignation Johnson told the Oracle News Daily, the new Chief of Staff will address the issues being raised but his sole interest is for the greater good of the army and the country’s security.
President Joseph Boakai said Monday he received and accepted a letter of resignation from Minister Johnson.
In his letter, the Minister of National Defense outlined his reasons for his action noting 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 posted on the presidency official Facebook account said.
“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.”
