Renowned Ghanaian undercover investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has expressed profound excitement following his victory in a defamation case against former Ghanaian Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong in the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey, United States.
In a press release following the verdict, Anas expressed a deep sense of vindication, emphasizing that this ruling goes beyond personal justice and serves as a powerful affirmation that falsehoods and character assassination have no place in a democratic society.
“This decision is not merely a legal triumph—it is a resounding affirmation that falsehood and character assassination have no place in our society. It reinforces our commitment to building a robust democracy that serves all ordinary Ghanaians”.
Anas Aremeyaw Anas
According to him, the case is particularly significant given the high legal standard for proving defamation in the United States.
Anas noted that American courts require clear and convincing evidence of malice, making his victory all the more remarkable.
He emphasized that the jury’s unanimous decision underscored that Agyapong’s statements were both malicious and reckless.
Contrasting Judicial Experiences: Ghana vs. US
Reflecting on his prior legal battle in Ghana, Anas lamented the stark contrast in judicial outcomes.
In 2018, he had pursued a defamation case against Agyapong in Ghana, but the Accra High Court dismissed his claims.
According to him, despite Agyapong’s own admission of lacking evidence to substantiate his allegations, Justice Eric Baah ruled against Anas and went as far as labeling him—a civil plaintiff—as a criminal.
“This ruling was later condemned by Supreme Court Justice Kulendi, who described it as a ‘violent abuse of judicial authority’. Such outcomes are a stark reminder of the systemic flaws within our Ghanaian judicial system—flaws that demand urgent reform.”
Anas Aremeyaw Anas
The Essex County trial, presided over by Judge Jeffrey B. Beacham, demonstrated what Anas described as fairness and accountability.
Agyapong, alongside his brother Ralph Agyapong, presented audiovisual evidence under the titled “Who Watches the Watchman” and referenced the Ghanaian court ruling in his defense.
“Despite these efforts, our case—thoroughly prepared and presented by my legal team led by Andrew Deheer, Esq.—prevailed with an 8-0 verdict on every count. This outcome proves that the truth prevails and that accountability must extend to everyone, regardless of their position or influence.”
Anas Aremeyaw Anas
Implications for Press Freedom and Accountability
Anas believes this case sends a strong warning to politicians who seek to undermine press freedom and intimidate journalists.
He stressed that the press plays a crucial role in scrutinizing power and holding leaders accountable, and that attempts to silence journalists through defamation will not go unchallenged.
“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 Aremeyaw Anas
Anas extended his gratitude to his legal team—Andrew Deheer, Esq., Arthur Wemegah, Esq., Evans Selasi Adika, Esq., and Odei Krow, Esq.—as well as to his supporters who have stood by him throughout this legal battle.
The eight-member jury delivered a unanimous verdict in favour of Anas, awarding him $18 million in damages over defamatory statements made by Agyapong in the aftermath of the BBC documentary Betraying the Game, aired on October 28, 2018.
As the case proceeds to determine punitive damages, Anas remains steadfast in his mission to expose corruption and injustice in Ghana and beyond.
Anas reaffirmed his dedication to investigative journalism and the fight against corruption. He described this legal victory as not just a personal triumph, but a milestone for all those committed to justice and transparency in society.
“The fight against corruption continues unabated. We will persist in rooting out graft and holding accountable the bad actors in our society” .
Anas Aremeyaw Anas
With this significant ruling, Anas Aremeyaw Anas has demonstrated that truth and accountability will always prevail, no matter how powerful the opponents.
His victory in the US court is not only a personal vindication but also a strong precedent for press freedom and justice worldwide.
READ ALSO: Ghana Accelerates Sustainable Energy Transition for Africa
