Truth prevails: Anas celebrates US court victory against Kennedy Agyapong for defamation

• Posted on March 19, 2025March 19, 2025
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has expressed a deep sense of vindication after securing a significant legal victory in the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey, USA.

The court delivered a unanimous verdict, holding Kennedy Agyapong, a former Ghanaian Member of Parliament, liable for defamation and awarding damages of $18 million.

“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 following the ruling.

He emphasized that the verdict strengthens the fight for democracy and accountability, ensuring that those in positions of power cannot recklessly attack journalists without consequences.

Anas highlighted the stark contrast between the justice he received in the United States and his experience in Ghana.

In 2018, despite Agyapong’s own admission of lacking evidence for his claims, an Accra High Court ruling dismissed Anas’ case and instead vilified him. The ruling was later condemned by Supreme Court Justice Kulendi, who described it as a “violent abuse of judicial authority.”

In the New Jersey case, Agyapong presented similar evidence to what he had used in Ghana, but this time, the jury unanimously rejected his claims, reaffirming that “truth prevails.”

Anas credited his legal team, led by Andrew Deheer, Esq., for their meticulous preparation that led to the 8-0 verdict.

“Today’s outcome sends a powerful message, particularly to Ghanaian politicians: you cannot take the media for granted,” he asserted, reiterating the essential role of press freedom and accountability in a functioning democracy.

“The fight against corruption continues unabated,” he declared, as he awaits the final decision on punitive damages.