Ken. Agyapong
Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has been awarded $18 million in his defamation lawsuit against former Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong. The ruling came from an Essex County jury and has garnered considerable attention across Ghana and beyond.
The case stems from statements made by Agyapong during a live broadcast on Adom TV in May 2018. In that program, Agyapong accused Anas of being a blackmailer, corrupt, and an extortionist. These remarks were part of a broader attempt to discredit Anas, especially following the release of his investigative reports on corruption.
Initially, Anas faced setbacks in his legal battle. In January 2023, an Accra High Court dismissed his defamation claim, stating that while Agyapong’s comments were indeed damaging, Anas had failed to prove his case sufficiently. Anas had sought GH¢25 million in aggravated damages, arguing that Agyapong’s statements were not only false but also deeply harmful to his reputation and career.
Following the dismissal, Anas did not give up. With the support of his legal team, he pursued a defamation suit in Essex County, which ultimately led to this substantial award. Legal scholar and political analyst Professor Kwaku Azar shared the news on social media, emphasizing the jury’s decision.
Kennedy Agyapong, on the other hand, has requested a remittitur, indicating he may seek to contest the jury’s ruling. This legal back-and-forth highlights the complexities of defamation cases, especially when public figures are involved.
Anas, known for his relentless pursuit of justice and accountability, expressed satisfaction with the verdict. This ruling not only vindicates him but also sends a strong message about the consequences of defamation in public discourse.
