Representative Thomas Alexander Goshua, Grand Bassa D-5, has clarified that while he supports the Port Autonomy Bill in principle, he did not vote for its passage.
The decision, Goshua said, was due to serious procedural lapses, including not receiving a copy of the final bill for review. “I support the Port Autonomy Bill, but I did not vote for its passage, because I did not receive a copy of the bill to review it in time,” Goshua said.
He said, the legislative process surrounding the bill did not meet acceptable standards, leaving lawmakers unable to make informed decisions. Goshua said, key documents, including compatibility reports and finalized drafts, were not circulated to members before the bill was brought to the floor for a vote. He said the lack of proper legislative flow contributed to confusion and weakened the overall quality of the bill, which was later vetoed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. Goshua: “Although, lawmakers attempted to constructively engage the process, concerns raised during caucus meetings, and plenary sessions were not adequately addressed.” He said resistance to scrutiny undermined the credibility of the legislation. Among Goshua’s major concerns were unresolved provisions relating to maritime governance.
He cited the absence of clarity on the establishment of a new maritime authority, the lack of a defined transition framework, and uncertainty over how port workers would be transitioned, absorbed, or protected, including issues related to pension. Rep. Goshua also pointed to gaps in the bill concerning existing contracts, regulatory oversight, and accountability mechanisms.
He described the concerns as critical omissions that could create long-term problems if left unaddressed. Equally troubling, Goshua said, was the absence of public participation. “There was not a single public hearing conducted on this bill.”
He added that international best practices require broad consultation on legislation with national economic implications.
Goshua said his decision should not be misconstrued as opposition to port autonomy. Instead, his position reflects a commitment to due process, transparency, and responsible lawmaking.
“With the bill now returned for reconsideration, this is our opportunity to do it right. We must ensure proper scrutiny, consultation, and clarity so that we do not repeat past legislative mistakes.”
Goshua meanwhile, urged his colleagues to prioritize openness, and careful review over speed, warning that rushing legislation without adequate evaluation risks undermining public confidence and policy effectiveness. By Wroinbee Elton Tiah/Ablee-Jay TV