Liberian Defense Minister Quits, Amidst Protests in Military Barracks

Liberia’s Defense Minister Prince Charles Johnson III has resigned following protests by wives of the country’s soldiers, who accuse him of low wages and poor living conditions in the military barracks.

The women set up roadblocks near the capital, Monrovia, and elsewhere in the country, forcing President Joseph Boakai to cancel National Army Day celebrations on Monday.

They demanded the defense minister’s resignation, blaming him for a reduction in the salaries of Liberian soldiers returning from peace missions in Mali.

The officers’ spouses also decried a lack of social security, electricity shortages, and corruption within the armed forces.

Mr. Johnson, in a statement, says he is stepping down due to the current political and civil disturbances occasioned by the protests.

He, however, denied allegations of misusing military funds, adding that his wish was to ensure discipline was instilled in the army.

President Boakai, who was inaugurated in January, through his office said the women’s grievances would be investigated and addressed.

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President Boakai asked the army on Monday to ensure that the roadblocks were lifted immediately, according to the presidency.

He met with soldiers’ wives on Sunday and vowed to carefully examine their concerns and set up a commission, his team said.

He ordered the restoration of electricity to the Edward Binyah Kesselly barracks and free classes in the school located within the compound.

The President has been in office for 20 days only and he has taken immediate steps already to address some of these issues which have been festering for more than five years, his team said in a statement.

Boakai advised everyone to remain calm and peaceful as the government seeks to address their concerns, it added.