Anas Aremeyaw Anas Wins $18M Defamation Case Against Kennedy Agyapong in U.S. Court, Stresses Media’s Role in Holding Power Accountable
Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has secured a major legal victory in the United States, winning an $18 million defamation lawsuit against former Ghanaian Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong. The ruling by the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey underscores the importance of press freedom and accountability in governance.
Anas: Politicians Cannot Take the Media for Granted
Following the court’s decision, Anas reaffirmed the critical role of journalists in scrutinizing power and exposing corruption. He warned politicians against undermining the media, emphasizing that press freedom is fundamental to democracy.
“Today’s outcome sends a powerful message, particularly to Ghanaian politicians: you cannot take the media for granted. The press plays an indispensable role in scrutinizing power and holding leaders accountable, and any attempt to undermine this essential function will be met with resolute resistance,” Anas stated.
Jury Rules Unanimously in Favor of Anas
An eight-member jury found Agyapong liable for defamation over remarks he made following the 2018 airing of the BBC documentary Betraying the Game. Anas argued that Agyapong’s statements were false and damaging to his reputation. The verdict reinforces that misinformation and character assassination have no place in a democratic society.
Contrast with Ghanaian Court Ruling
Anas contrasted this U.S. court victory with his failed legal battle in Ghana, where he previously sued Agyapong for defamation but was denied justice.
“Regrettably, the situation in Ghana was starkly different. In 2018, when I pursued a similar lawsuit there, justice eluded me… Such outcomes are a stark reminder of the systemic flaws within our Ghanaian judicial system—flaws that demand urgent reform,” he lamented.
Anas recalled how Justice Eric Baah of the Accra High Court not only dismissed his case but also wrongfully portrayed him as a criminal. This ruling was later condemned by Ghana’s Supreme Court Justice Kulendi, who described it as a “violent abuse of judicial authority.”
Anas Pledges to Continue the Fight Against Corruption
Despite the legal setbacks in Ghana, Anas remains steadfast in his mission to fight corruption and promote accountability. He expressed gratitude to his legal team, supporters, and all who stood by him during the case.
With a final determination on punitive damages still pending, Anas hopes this ruling will serve as a warning to those who attempt to silence journalists through intimidation and misinformation.
“The fight against corruption continues unabated. We will persist in rooting out graft and holding accountable the bad actors in our society.”
His resounding victory in the U.S. is widely seen as a landmark case for press freedom and investigative journalism.
