Ghanaian Journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas Awarded $18 Million in…

Ghanaian journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has been awarded $18 million in damages by a US court after being defamed by former MP Kennedy Agyapong. The case arose from disparaging remarks made by Agyapong, which included false allegations about Anas’s involvement in the murder of journalist Ahmed Suale. Anas remains committed to fighting corruption despite facing significant challenges.

Anas Aremeyaw Anas, a renowned investigative journalist from Ghana, has been awarded $18 million in damages by a US court after a jury found that he was defamed by former Ghanaian Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong. This case stems from disparaging comments made by Agyapong following Anas’s investigation into football corruption in Ghana and beyond, which aired on BBC in 2018.

During a podcast, Agyapong referred to Anas as a “criminal” and alleged his involvement in the murder of fellow journalist Ahmed Suale. Anas had previously lost a similar case in Ghana seven years ago. However, after the podcast episode was released in 2021, he pursued legal action in New Jersey, where Agyapong maintains property.

The jury’s decision, confirmed last week, was unanimous in finding Agyapong liable for defamation, resulting in a total award of $18 million, which includes $8 million in punitive damages. Anas stated, “Justice has prevailed. This victory is not just for me, but for truth, press freedom, and every journalist who risks everything to expose corruption and wrongdoing.”

In his remarks, Anas emphasized that no intimidation would deter his pursuit of accountability in journalism. He has received multiple international awards for his reporting and remains committed to combating corruption and ensuring justice for wrongdoers.

Agyapong’s legal team argued against the jurisdiction of the case in the US, claiming that his comments were simply hyperbole and therefore not subject to defamation. Meanwhile, in Ghana, authorities have arrested a suspect linked to the murder of Ahmed Suale, which is connected to the aforementioned corruption investigation, further highlighting the dangers faced by journalists in the region.

The verdict against Kennedy Agyapong signifies a significant victory for journalistic integrity and accountability. Anas Aremeyaw Anas’s commitment to fighting corruption and pursuing truth resonates as a beacon of resilience for journalists globally. Despite challenges and threats, his determination reinforces the critical role of the press in safeguarding democracy and promoting transparency.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com