Kojo Mpiani Directs Gov�t To Challenge $1.5b Claim Over �Rotten� Vehicles

Former chief of staff Kwadwo Mpiani has asked government to challenge the $1.5 billion claim by the African Automobile Limited (AAL), for some 86 cross country vehicles delivered in 2001 for distribution to local assemblies but left to rot in bonded warehouse. According to him, the vehicles which were ordered by the erstwhile National Democratic Congress (NDC1) administration did not meet the correct specifications and could therefore not be accepted by the Kufuor-led government. However Deputy Information Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who has accused the erstwhile New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration of negligence, has said government is negotiating with the company for an out of court settlement and to beat down the amount. But speaking on Joy FM on Thursday, Mr Mpiani stated: �Let them [government] go to court and challenge them [the claim by African Automobile Limited],� he directed insisting: "There is no basis for any negotiation." He said government was only engaging in equalization of errors and a publicity stunt instead of negotiating processes that will ensure the State does not lose such an amount.