President Joseph Boakai of Liberia appointed Rtd. Brigadier General Geraldine George as the interim Minister of Defense, marking the first time a woman has held this position.
She was appointed as a result of Prince Charles Johnson III’s resignation amid complaints from the wives of soldiers.
Having served in the Liberian army since 2006, Rtd. Brigadier General George advanced through the ranks and demonstrated his skill in the elite forces. Her most recent position as deputy head of staff demonstrated six years of leadership.
On February 11, 2024, the wives of soldiers protested and forced the former head of defense to quit, claiming poor pay and living conditions in the barracks. The former head of the armed forces was held accountable.
President Boakai had to postpone the National Army Day celebrations because of the protests that resulted in barricades close to Monrovia.
