$18m awarded against Kennedy Agyapong...in Anas defamation case - Ghanaian Times

In a significant legal ruling, the Accra High Court has ordered Ghanaian politician Kennedy Agyapong to pay GHS 18 million in damages for defaming investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas. The case stemmed from comments made by Agyapong during a television broadcast in 2018, where he accused Anas of engaging in corrupt practices and questioned his integrity as a journalist.

The court found that Agyapong's statements were not only false but also damaging to Anas's reputation and career. Justice Eric Baah emphasized the importance of protecting individuals from defamatory remarks, particularly those who engage in investigative journalism. The ruling serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of spreading misinformation and highlights the need for accountability among public figures.

Agyapong has expressed intentions to appeal the decision, arguing that his comments were based on legitimate concerns regarding Anas's work. This case underscores ongoing tensions between politicians and journalists in Ghana, raising questions about freedom of speech and the responsibilities that come with it.