U.S. Court Slashes Anas’ $18 Million Defamation Award Against Kennedy Agyapong to $500

A U.S. court has dramatically reduced the $18 million defamation judgment previously awarded to Ghanaian investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas against former Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong. The new award stands at just $500.

The original ruling by the Superior Court of New Jersey found both Kennedy Agyapong and social media commentator Frederick Asamoah liable for defamatory remarks made during a 2021 interview broadcast on social media. The jury initially granted Anas $18 million in damages.

However, a press release from Anas’ investigative outfit, Tiger Eye P.I., issued on Monday, May 12, confirmed that the presiding judge later approved a motion for remittitur—a legal procedure allowing for a reduction in the damages awarded by a jury. The court found the original amount to be “excessive,” though it did not overturn the jury’s verdict on the defamation itself.

Despite the drastic reduction in financial compensation, Anas expressed satisfaction with the court’s affirmation that the statements made by Mr. Agyapong were indeed defamatory.

“This case was never about the money,” Anas stated. “It was about truth and justice. I am pleased that the defamatory nature of Mr. Agyapong’s comments has been confirmed by the court.”

He also pointed out that none of the allegations made by Agyapong against him were substantiated during the trial.

“I am happy that not a single allegation was proven against me in court, despite Mr. Agyapong being given every opportunity to do so,” he added.

The court’s decision marks a significant development in a high-profile legal battle that has drawn attention both in Ghana and internationally.