Former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, has launched a legal challenge against an $18 million defamation verdict in the U.S., seeking a reduction in damages awarded to investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
Agyapong’s legal team has filed a motion in the Superior Court of New Jersey, arguing that while jury decisions are significant, courts have the power to review and modify awards deemed excessive.
The ruling stemmed from Agyapong’s public allegations against Anas, which triggered a legal battle that ended in a hefty judgment in favor of the journalist.
However, Agyapong’s lawyers maintain that the damages should be reassessed for a “more balanced outcome.”
In his reaction, Anas celebrated the court’s decision as a win for justice and press freedom.
“This decision is not merely a legal triumph—it is a resounding affirmation that falsehood and character assassination have no place in our society,” he stated.
Anas contrasted the U.S. ruling with his failed defamation case against Agyapong in Ghana in 2018, where he was denied justice despite what he describes as a lack of evidence from Agyapong.
He also pointed out that Agyapong had relied on the same ‘Who Watches the Watchman’ evidence used in Ghana but lost the case in the U.S. unanimously.
“This outcome proves that the truth prevails and that accountability must extend to everyone, regardless of their position or influence,” he asserted.
Sending a strong warning to politicians, Anas emphasized that the media “cannot be taken for granted” and plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable.
As the legal battle continues, all eyes are on the New Jersey court to see whether Agyapong’s appeal will succeed in reducing the massive financial penalty.