Ashanti Port Services Limited (APSL), a private consortium which previously engaged in the construction of the Boankra Inland Port Project, has initiated legal proceedings against the Ministry of Transport over the termination of their contract.

The consortium is seeking damages exceeding three billion dollars, claiming this amount represents the projected profit margin over the 27-year operational period of the project.

APSL asserts that the contract was terminated by the Ghana Shippers Authority, operating through the Ministry of Transport, despite the consortium’s diligent efforts to meet their obligations under the Build, Operate and Transfer agreement.

The consortium contends that the termination was unlawful, attributing it to various interferences and breaches by the respondent.

David Affum, the CEO of APSL, is pursuing a declaration that the termination was unlawful, an interim injunction to halt any further work on the project site, general damages for breach of contract, and reimbursement of incurred expenses.

Additionally, APSL is seeking a refund of funds paid by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority for shares in APSL, along with compensation for the projected income over the operational period of the project.

The consortium is hoping for a favorable ruling from the Court of Arbitration, which would include reinstatement of the contract and an award covering legal fees.

This lawsuit underscores the complexities and challenges private entities face in infrastructure projects in Ghana, as well as the potential repercussions of contract terminations for all parties involved.