Russians, Gov't still legally sparring despite pending deal

Even as outgoing Minerals Minister, Sadique Kebonang secured last minute approval of US$45 million to offer to Norilsk Nickel as a settlement of a US$271 million lawsuit, the Russian giant was pressing ahead with one of its lawsuits in the matter.

Kebonang, having overcome parliamentary resistance, clinched approval of the offer in his final week as minister before the recent reshuffle. The total amount to be offered to the Russian metals giant is P522 million, with the other funds already sourced and allocated from the Minerals ministry itself.