Anas vrs. Kennedy Agyapong: U.S. Court slashes $18m defamation fine to $500

A United States Court has reduced the defamation damages against Kennedy Agyapong. The original amount was $18 million, but it is now just $500.

The Superior Court of New Jersey awarded investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas this sum in a defamation lawsuit. This case involved Agyapong and Frederick Asamoah, a social media commentator.

The legal battle began over alleged defamatory statements made during a 2021 interview on social media. On May 12, Anas' Tigereyepi issued a press statement about the ruling.

While the jury's verdict remains, the trial judge granted a motion for remittitur. This legal request reduced the damages to $500.

Anas believes this ruling confirms that defamation occurred, despite the lower penalty.

He stated, “A couple of weeks ago, an American jury found Kennedy Agyapong guilty of maliciously defaming my character.” He noted that he was awarded $18 million as a result.

Agyapong filed a motion for remittitur and admitted to maliciously defaming Anas.

According to Anas, the judge's decision did not reverse the finding of defamation. Instead, it deemed the original award “excessive.”

Anas expressed satisfaction with the ruling’s affirmation of his claims. He emphasized that this case was about truth and justice, not money.

He said, “Many avenues of redemption accrue to me.” He reiterated that his fight is for truth and justice.

Anas pointed out that none of Agyapong's allegations were proven in court. He stated, “Not a single allegation was proven against me.”

He remains committed to fighting corruption and will continue to expose those who undermine public trust.