Published: December 8, 2025
MONROVIA — Former Montserrado County Superintendent and ex-National Port Authority (NPA) Board Member Grace Kpan has called for the removal of the Minister of Justice from the NPA Board, arguing the position violates the Public Authorities Law and should instead be occupied by the appropriate Port User Groups. She issued the call while delivering a sharp policy-driven keynote address at a retirement ceremony honoring 18 long-serving NPA employees for 2024/2025.
Kpan simultaneously praised the current NPA Senior Management Team for what she described as “major gains” since taking office, saying their achievements demonstrate a renewed commitment to modernization, worker welfare and institutional reform.
Retirement Program Honors Long-Serving Workers
The NPA over the weekend hosted an elaborate ceremony attended by former and current government officials, port workers, union leaders, and families of the retirees. Each honoree received a medal, certificate, sash in the Authority’s colors, and other accolades celebrating decades of service to the nation’s maritime sector.
Delivering her keynote on the theme “As We Move Forward,” Kpan reminded the audience that the NPA was established by an Act of the Legislature in 1967, amended in 1970, and codified in the Public Authorities Law.
She warned that persistent violations of the Port Act “undermine the integrity and efficiency of the seaport,” affecting not only operations and professional standards but also the livelihoods of workers.
“As we move forward, we must confront these challenges head-on,” she said. “And if we do not like these laws, or respect these laws, then we must change these laws. As we move forward, we cannot blatantly violate the laws establishing the National Port Authority.”
Kpan stressed that compliance, transparency, and oversight were necessary to restore investor confidence and strengthen relationships between management and workers. She recommended establishing a regulatory committee composed of management, labor unions, and independent observers.
The Core of Her Argument: Board Structure Violated
Kpan outlined specific legal contradictions relating to the NPA Board.
“Volume 5, Page 277 of the Public Authorities Law gives the structure of the Board of the National Port Authority,” she explained, noting that the Act requires five Port User Groups and only three ex-officio members—the Ministers of Finance, Commerce and Transportation.
“Today, the NPA Board has four ex-officio members, including the Minister of Justice,” she said. “We suggest that he be recalled and replaced and the appropriate Port User Groups be adequately represented.”
Kpan added that she once served on the Board as the representative of the Dockworkers Union, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the intended structure.
Liberia Leads in Ship Registry – But Workers Left Behind
Calling attention to a paradox, Kpan noted Liberia’s rise as the world’s largest ship registry by gross tonnage—surpassing Panama and the Marshall Islands—but lamented the lack of employment opportunities for Liberian seafarers.
“As we move forward, we must THINK LIBERIA,” she said. “NPA leadership, as a part of the Maritime community, must ensure that we prioritize Liberian Seafarers on these vessels.”
Labor Relations, Modernization and Community Engagement
Kpan said the port’s workforce remains the backbone of its productivity and called for improved labor relations built on mutual respect and collaboration.
She also recommended investments in infrastructure, training, container scanners, and stronger partnerships with government, the private sector and international organizations. She emphasized environmentally sustainable practices and deeper engagement with surrounding communities.
“Involving the local community in the development process will foster goodwill,” she said. “As we move forward, let’s engage our communities, not only in Monrovia but in all counties.”
Praise for Retirees and Current Leadership
Kpan congratulated the retirees for decades of dedicated service.
“Your retirement today attests to your hard work,” she said. “I also encourage every other employee to emulate your commitment and dedication.”
She also outlined key achievements under the current NPA administration, including hosting the Harbor Master’s Conference, hiring a young Harbor Master for Monrovia, developing a five-year master plan, resuming night sailing, acquiring a fire truck, and sending staff for international training in China.
“Leadership is not about position – but passion. It is not about image – but impact. This is Leadership 101,” she concluded.
Managing Director Dukuly Hails Retirees’ Legacy
NPA Managing Director Sekou A. Dukuly praised the retirees for their “decades of commitment” that helped shape Liberia’s maritime progress.
“Your hard work has facilitated trade, fostered economic growth, and connected Liberia to the world,” he said. “You have left an indelible mark on the National Port Authority.”
Dukuly urged the senior management team to reform the pension structure so retirees are treated with dignity. He noted that some retirees receive just over US$80 a month—an amount he said is untenable.
“We’re working on reforms to ensure retirees are treated with dignity, respect and honor,” he stressed.
The NPA Managing Director encouraged the retirees to use their voices to advocate for positive national change, reminding them that they now have freedom to speak out without fear of reprisal.
A Call for Collective Commitment
Dukuly reaffirmed management’s dedication to transforming the National Port Authority into a modern, efficient maritime gateway.
He urged continuous collaboration among workers, leaders, and stakeholders.
“With your support and commitment, the NPA will continue moving toward a stronger, more innovative future,” he said.
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