SML sues Fourth Estate, Manasseh for ¢10m damages

Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) is taking legal action against media company The Fourth Estate for alleged defamation following the release of “The GH¢3bn Lie Documentary”. SML claims that the damaging publication has negatively impacted its reputation and operations. They are seeking ¢10 million in damages, with one million for defamation and nine million for exemplary damages due to reckless and malicious reporting.

SML is requesting a perpetual injunction against the publication of further defamatory material, a retraction and apology, and any other orders deemed appropriate by the High Court.

In a December 2023 investigative report, The Fourth Estate implicated SML, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance in a controversial 10-year contract. SML refuted the allegations, stating that it had a five-year contract instead. President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG to conduct an audit of SML’s contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance, and the audit’s timeline has been extended following a request from KPMG.