Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has issued a strong warning to politicians and the media following his victory in the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey.
A jury found former MP, Kennedy Agyapong, liable for defamation and awarded him $18 million in damages.
“This decision is not merely a legal triumph—it is a resounding affirmation that falsehood and character assassination have no place in our society,” Anas stated.
“It reinforces our commitment to building a robust democracy that serves all ordinary Ghanaians.”
The case centred on defamatory statements made by Agyapong after the release of the BBC’s investigative documentary, Betraying the Game, on October 28, 2018.
Anas emphasized the significance of the unanimous jury verdict, highlighting the stringent legal standards for proving defamation in the U.S.
“Proving defamation in the United States is an exceptionally high hurdle, requiring clear and convincing evidence of malice,” he noted.
“That the jury ruled unanimously in my favour underscores that Mr. Agyapong acted both maliciously and recklessly in his attacks against me.”
Anas contrasted the U.S. ruling with his experience in Ghana, where a similar defamation case against Agyapong in 2018 yielded a vastly different outcome.
“In Ghana, justice eluded me,” he lamented. “Despite Mr. Agyapong’s own admission of lacking evidence to support his calumnious claims, Justice Eric Baah of the Accra High Court not only denied me justice but also unjustly portrayed me—the civil plaintiff—as a criminal.”
Anas referenced Supreme Court Justice Kulendi’s condemnation of the Ghanaian ruling, describing it as a “violent abuse of judicial authority.”
He called the disparity between the two legal systems a stark reminder of the need for urgent judicial reforms in Ghana.
“In contrast, the proceedings in New Jersey demonstrated fairness and accountability,” he said.
“Despite presenting the same ‘Who Watches the Watchman’ evidence and even citing the Ghanaian judgment, Mr Agyapong’s defence collapsed before the weight of truth.”
Anas took the opportunity to issue a warning to politicians about their treatment of journalists and the media.
“Today’s outcome sends a powerful message, particularly to Ghanaian politicians: you cannot take the media for granted,” he declared.
“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.”
He extended his gratitude to his legal team, led by Andrew Deheer, Esq., and to supporters who stood by him throughout the legal battle. With punitive damages yet to be determined, Anas reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to fighting corruption.
“The fight against corruption continues unabated,” he asserted. “We will persist in rooting out graft and holding accountable the bad actors in our society.”
His victory has reignited discussions on press freedom, judicial integrity, and the limits of political influence in shaping public narratives.
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