Okudzeto threatens Gloria Akuffu, Glady's Asmah et al over “state vehicles”

Government has issued an ultimatum to officials of the Kufuor administration to return all state vehicles in their possession by the end of this week.

Deputy Information Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa issued the instruction at a news conference in Accra threatening tough action against ex-officials who default.

He hinted that the Mills government will no longer accept the 30% rebate which was allowed on the vehicles for purchase by the former officials.

The ultimatum follows a press conference organised by the minority in Parliament on Tuesday against what they said has been the persistent political persecution being meted out to members of the NPP.

Mr Okudzeto announced a tall list of 45 officials of the previous government who he claimed still have state vehicles in their custody.

They included former Aviation Minister Ms Gloria Akuffo, former Communications Minister Benjamin Aggrey Ntim, former Deputy Finance Minister Prof George Gyan-Baffour and former Deputy Health Minister Gladys Ashitey.

The statement has sparked strong condemnation from big guns of the NPP some of whom are already threatening court action.

Former Minister of Fisheries, Gladys Asmah, has vowed she would sue the government over claims that she is keeping a state asset.

She said the government including her name in the list was rather uncalled for.

“I don't have any vehicle of any government. I will sue them,” she hinted.

Meanwhile former Communications Minister Mr Benjamin Aggrey Ntim has accused the government of unfairness.

He told Joy News although he has already paid for the vehicle, he is ready to return it once he gets a refund.

Mr Ntim said he has long been served a letter to return the vehicles on the premise that it is less than two years old.

The Mills government maintains vehicles sold to the ex-officials were not properly valued.

It has already set up a committee to “track” vehicles it believes are state assets still in the possession of former government officials.

Listen to excerpts of the press conference held by Mr Okudzeto in the attached audio.

Story by Fiifi Koomson/Myjoyonline