In a historic move, retired brigadier general Geraldine George has been appointed as Liberia’s defence minister, marking the first time a woman assumes this role, albeit in an acting capacity.
President Joseph Boakai had initially appointed George as the Deputy Minister of Operations in the defence ministry. However, the resignation of Prince Charles Johnson III after protests from army wives led to this groundbreaking appointment.
George expressed gratitude for her initial appointment as deputy minister, highlighting the honor of working with former President George Manneh Weah. She emphasized her role on the world stage and the opportunity to make decisions for Africa on behalf of Liberia, as the only female among other Chiefs of Defense Staff.
According to BBC reports, George joined the army in 2006 following the conclusion of a civil war. Over the years, she rose through the ranks, eventually becoming part of the elite forces and serving as deputy chief of staff for six years.
This appointment symbolizes a significant milestone for gender equality in Liberia’s military and sets a precedent for empowering women in defense leadership roles.
Stay tuned for more updates on this historic development.
