Investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas has secured a major victory in his defamation case against Ghanaian MP Kennedy Agyapong, with a US jury awarding him $18 million in damages. However, Anas emphasizes that the true significance of this win lies not in the monetary compensation, but in the powerful message it sends to politicians and leaders across the continent.
“The bigger impact for me is not the money, but the fact that young journalists are encouraged to hold the powerful to account, no matter how big you are as a politician,” Anas told the BBC. This statement underscores Anas’ commitment to promoting a free press and safeguarding the rights of journalists to investigate and report on corruption and wrongdoing.
The lawsuit stemmed from Agyapong’s public accusations against Anas, including labeling him a “criminal” following his investigation into football corruption in Ghana and beyond. Despite initially losing the case in Ghana, Anas pursued legal action in the US, where Agyapong owns property, and ultimately emerged victorious.
Anas also reflected on the murder of his colleague, Ahmed Suale, who was killed in 2019. Anas visits Suale’s grave regularly, drawing inspiration from his colleague’s commitment to their shared work. Although a suspect has been arrested, Anas believes others involved in Suale’s killing remain at large.
Anas’ criticism of Ghana’s legal system is scathing, with him stating that “many members of the judiciary are doing nothing but tilting the scale of justice in favor of the wrong one.” This led him to file his case in New Jersey, where Agyapong had made defamatory remarks on a podcast.
Anas views his legal victory as a win not just for himself, but for journalists across Africa. He emphasizes the need for resilience in the face of adversity, saying, “We also have the capacity to stand toe-to-toe with you. Whilst we are patient, whilst we are honest, our day will definitely come”
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
