VIDEO: ‘Media can’t be silenced’–Anas speaks on U.S. Court victory

Anas Aremeyaw Anas, the renowned Investigative Journalist, has issued a powerful statement following his legal victory in the Essex County Superior Court in New Jersey, which saw former Assin Central MP, Kennedy Agyapong, held liable for defamation. The court awarded Anas $18 million in damages, marking a significant moment for both media freedom and the fight against defamation.

The court victory: A legal triumph for Anas

The case centered on defamatory statements made by Kennedy Agyapong after the release of the BBC’s investigative documentary, Betraying the Game, on October 28, 2018. Anas hailed the verdict as not just a legal success, but as an important affirmation that falsehoods and character assassination have no place in society.

“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, emphasizing the role of the media in protecting democracy. “It reinforces our commitment to building a robust democracy that serves all ordinary Ghanaians.”

The U.S. ruling: A landmark decision

Anas took the opportunity to highlight the weight of the jury’s decision. Proving defamation in the United States, he noted, is a high standard that requires clear and convincing evidence of malice. In this case, the jury ruled unanimously in his favor, signaling that Agyapong’s actions were both malicious and reckless.

“Proving defamation in the United States is an exceptionally high hurdle, requiring clear and convincing evidence of malice,” Anas said. “That the jury ruled unanimously in my favor underscores that Mr. Agyapong acted both maliciously and recklessly in his attacks against me.”

Anas also underscored the significance of the fairness and accountability demonstrated in the U.S. courts, a stark contrast to the outcome of a similar case he pursued in Ghana back in 2018.

A stark contrast to Ghana’s judicial system

Reflecting on his previous experience in Ghana, Anas expressed his disappointment with the outcome of a similar defamation case against Agyapong in Accra. Despite Agyapong’s admission that he lacked evidence to support his defamatory claims, the case was dismissed by the Accra High Court, and Anas was even portrayed as a criminal.

“In Ghana, justice eluded me,” Anas 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 pointed to a condemnation by Supreme Court Justice Kulendi, who described the Ghanaian ruling as a “violent abuse of judicial authority.” For Anas, the contrasting outcomes of the two cases are a vivid reminder of the need for judicial reforms in Ghana.

“In contrast, the proceedings in New Jersey demonstrated fairness and accountability,” Anas remarked. “Despite presenting the same ‘Who Watches the Watchman’ evidence and even citing the Ghanaian judgment, Mr. Agyapong’s defense collapsed before the weight of truth.”

A strong warning to politicians

Following the court victory, Anas issued a strong warning to politicians, particularly in Ghana, about their treatment of journalists and the media. He emphasized that politicians can no longer afford to take the media for granted.

“Today’s outcome sends a powerful message, particularly to Ghanaian politicians: you cannot take the media for granted,” Anas asserted. “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.”

Anas also praised his legal team, led by Andrew Deheer, Esq., and expressed gratitude to the supporters who stood by him during the prolonged legal battle.

The anti-corruption fight continues

While punitive damages are yet to be determined, Anas reaffirmed his commitment to fighting corruption and upholding the values of justice and integrity. He stated that the victory was just one step in a larger ongoing effort to root out corruption in Ghana and beyond.

“The fight against corruption continues unabated,” Anas declared. “We will persist in rooting out graft and holding accountable the bad actors in our society.”

Anas’ victory has sparked renewed discussions about press freedom, judicial integrity, and the influence of political figures in shaping public narratives. The outcome is not just a legal battle won, but a reaffirmation of the critical role of the press in maintaining democracy and accountability.

A call for media integrity and judicial reform

Anas’ victory in the U.S. courts has significant implications for the media landscape and judicial processes in Ghana. The case is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting journalists from defamation and malicious attacks, particularly when they are engaged in exposing corruption. It also highlights the pressing need for judicial reform to ensure fair and just legal outcomes for all citizens, regardless of political or social status.

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