Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has secured an $18 million defamation victory against former Ghanaian MP Kennedy Agyapong in a New Jersey court. He hailed the verdict as a major step toward justice and press freedom.
Following the ruling by the Essex County Superior Court, Anas described the decision as a strong confirmation that falsehoods and character attacks have no place in a democratic society. He emphasized that this victory goes beyond personal vindication, serving as a beacon of hope for journalists and citizens advocating for transparency and accountability.
Court Ruling and Jury Verdict
Anas announced that an eight-member jury had unanimously found Agyapong liable for defamation. The damages awarded stem from statements the politician made after the release of the BBC documentary Betraying the Game on October 28, 2018.
“This verdict is a clear reminder that truth prevails over lies,” Anas stated. “It strengthens our commitment to building a democracy that protects the rights of all Ghanaians.”
He highlighted the rigorous legal standards in the United States, noting that defamation cases require clear and convincing proof of malice.
“The burden of proof for defamation in the U.S. is exceptionally high,” he explained. “The jury’s unanimous decision affirms that Agyapong acted with malice and recklessness in his attacks against me.”
Comparing U.S. and Ghanaian Justice Systems
Anas also reflected on his unsuccessful attempt to seek justice in Ghana. He recalled how, despite Agyapong’s admission of lacking evidence, Justice Eric Baah of the Accra High Court dismissed his case in 2018 and portrayed him as a criminal instead.
“The difference between the two rulings is stark,” he lamented. “While the U.S. jury found the claims against me to be baseless, the Ghanaian court took an opposite stance, despite clear indications that Agyapong had no proof.”
He pointed out that Supreme Court Justice Kulendi later criticized the Ghanaian ruling as a “violent abuse of judicial authority,” reinforcing concerns about systemic flaws in the country’s judiciary.
Fair Trial and Legal Representation
The U.S. trial, presided over by Judge Jeffrey B. Beacham, saw both Kennedy Agyapong and his brother, Ralph Agyapong, take the stand in their defense. Agyapong presented audiovisual evidence under the title Who Watches the Watchman and referenced the Ghanaian court ruling to support his case.
However, Anas’s legal team, led by Andrew Deheer, presented a compelling argument that ultimately secured an 8-0 jury verdict in his favor.
“This case demonstrates that justice can prevail when handled fairly and objectively,” Anas stated.
Message to Politicians and Commitment to Press Freedom
Anas emphasized that the verdict serves as a warning to politicians who believe they can attack journalists without consequences.
“This ruling sends a clear message, especially to Ghanaian politicians: the media is not to be taken for granted,” he declared. “Journalists play a vital role in holding leaders accountable, and any attempt to silence them will be met with resistance.”
He expressed gratitude to his legal team, including Andrew Deheer, Arthur Wemegah, Evans Selasi Adika, and Odei Krow, as well as supporters who stood by him throughout the legal battle.
With the case now concluded, Anas remains steadfast in his mission to expose corruption and advocate for justice.
“The fight against corruption continues,” he affirmed. “We will keep working to root out misconduct and hold wrongdoers accountable.”
