In a significant legal triumph, investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has been awarded $18 million in damages by a US court after a defamation lawsuit against former Ghanaian Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong.
The ruling, delivered by the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey, marks a major victory for Anas in his ongoing battle against defamatory claims made by Agyapong.
The lawsuit stemmed from an interview on “The Daddy Fred Show,” a popular online program hosted by Frederick Asamoah.
During the broadcast, Agyapong made several defamatory statements about Anas, labeling him a “criminal” and a “thief,” and falsely accusing him of being responsible for the murder of fellow journalist Ahmed Suale and the deaths of multiple Chinese nationals in Ghana.
Justice served!
Today, a U.S. jury ruled unanimously in my favor, awarding $18M in my defamation case against Kennedy Agyapong. The court found he acted with malice, spreading baseless lies. Truth prevails!#SayNoToCorruption #JournalismIsNotACrime #TruthStands pic.twitter.com/shCq2CDoNT
— Anas Aremeyaw Anas (@anasglobal) March 18, 2025Anas, renowned for his undercover investigations exposing corruption and human rights abuses, argued that these statements were part of a deliberate effort to tarnish his reputation and discredit his work.
The court’s decision underscores the severity of Agyapong’s actions, finding them to be malicious and reckless.
The unanimous verdict by the US court highlights the stringent legal standards for proving defamation in the United States, which require clear and convincing evidence of malice.
PHOTOS: Anas Aremeyaw Anas triumphs in defamation battle against Kennedy Agyapong, awarded $18 million in damages.#JoyNews pic.twitter.com/OaC6pOM3LT
— Joy 99.7 FM (@Joy997FM) March 19, 2025Anas has hailed this decision as more than just a personal victory, emphasizing its broader implications for democracy and accountability.
It sends a strong message that falsehoods and character assassination will not be tolerated, especially when directed at journalists.
The outcome in the US contrasts sharply with Anas’ experience in Ghana, where a similar defamation case against Agyapong was dismissed. This difference underscores the challenges faced by journalists in Ghana and the importance of international legal systems in protecting their rights.
Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ victory in the US court is a testament to the power of truth and the rule of law.
It reinforces the commitment to building a robust democracy where media professionals can operate without fear of unjust attacks from those in power. As Anas continues to expose corruption and advocate for justice, this ruling serves as a significant milestone in his career and a beacon of hope for journalists worldwide
K Fosu The Informant is a lifestyle blogger with 6 years' experience in content and web development. He is a Google keyword planner, SEO analyst, an influencer and entrepreneur who holds BA Degree from Ghana's Premier University.
