In a significant development, the Accra High Court has granted permission for parties involved in the legal dispute between the Vehicle Embossment Association (VEMAG) and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to pursue an out-of-court settlement. This decision follows a notification from lawyers representing Original Manufacturing and Embossment Company Ltd, signaling the readiness of all parties to resolve the matter amicably.
The legal tussle began when VEMAG filed a suit seeking to restrain the DVLA from implementing a new vehicle number plate registration system. The plaintiffs argued that the proposed system could potentially infringe upon their rights and interests, prompting the need for judicial intervention.
During a court session on Friday, February 13, 2023, Prof. Kwame Gyan, lead counsel for Original Manufacturing and Embossment Company Ltd, informed the court of ongoing settlement discussions between the parties. Prof. Gyan emphasized his longstanding professional relationship with Martin Kpebu, lead counsel for VEMAG, and expressed optimism about reaching a consensus outside the courtroom.
“I have a very long-standing excellent relationship with Martin Kpebu. We’ve had conferences at the bar and outside the courtroom. We propose that my Lord is amenable to one adjournment to continue the conversation,” Prof. Gyan stated.
Martin Kpebu, representing VEMAG, corroborated Prof. Gyan's statement and confirmed that constructive discussions were underway. He requested an adjournment to allow both parties sufficient time to finalize their negotiations.
Similarly, legal representatives of the DVLA welcomed the development and expressed their willingness to cooperate with the settlement process. They assured the court of their commitment to resolving the matter in an amicable manner.
Presiding over the case, Justice Isaac Addo acknowledged the willingness of all parties to settle and granted an adjournment to facilitate further discussions. He instructed that, should an agreement be reached, the terms of settlement must be filed with the court before the next hearing date.
“Since all the lawyers in this suit have expressed a desire to resolve the matter, the court will grant an adjournment. In the event that the parties are able to settle the suit out of court, the terms of settlement should be filed before the next court date,” Justice Addo remarked.
The case has been adjourned to February 27, 2023, providing a window for all parties to finalize their negotiations and potentially bring an amicable resolution to this dispute.
This development underscores the importance of dialogue and collaboration in resolving legal disputes. The decision to pursue an out-of-court settlement not only saves judicial resources but also fosters goodwill among stakeholders. As both sides work toward a mutually beneficial resolution, all eyes will be on February 27 to see if this matter can be brought to a close without further litigation.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
