MONROVIA, May 29 (LINA) - President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf departed the country Thursday for a private visit to the United States of America.

According to an Executive Mansion release, President Sirleaf will be
away for a week.

During her absence from the country, the Minister of National Defense,
Brownie J. Samukai, will serve as Chairman of the Cabinet in consultation with Vice President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr.

The Liberian leader is expected to return to the country on June 4th.
LINA TSS/PTK