A U.S. Court has substantially reduced the $18 million defamation damages awarded against Ghanaian politician and former Member of Parliament, Kennedy Agyapong, to just $500.
The case stemmed from allegations made by Agyapong during a 2021 interview, in which he accused investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas of various criminal activities, including corruption and blackmail. In response, Anas, through his investigative platform Tiger Eye PI, filed a defamation suit against Agyapong, leading to the initial award of $18 million.
The ruling came after a protracted legal battle, with the jury in the Superior Court of New Jersey finding Agyapong guilty of malicious defamation. However, following the verdict, Agyapong filed a motion for remittitur, seeking to reduce the amount awarded against him. By filing this motion, Agyapong effectively acknowledged the defamation, admitting to the harm caused by his accusations.
In response to the motion, the trial judge granted the request for remittitur, but instead of the $18 million originally awarded, the damages were reduced to $500. The judge’s decision was based on the belief that the original amount was excessive, though the defamation finding itself remained intact.
In a statement issued by Tiger Eye PI, the plaintiff, represented by Anas Aremeyaw Anas, emphasized that the case was never about financial compensation but about the pursuit of truth and justice. “Our victory is in the judgment and not the award,” the statement read. Anas also pointed out that none of the allegations made by Agyapong were substantiated in court despite the ample opportunity for Agyapong to provide evidence.
Anas, through the statement, reaffirmed his commitment to the fight against corruption, emphasizing that the ruling reaffirmed his dedication to truth and accountability. “I am happy that not a single allegation was proven against me in court,” Anas said. “This fight has not been about the money, but rather a fight for truth and justice. I will continue in my relentless fight against corruption, and I will continue to name, shame, and ensure accountability for those who undermine public trust.”
