Anas Loses Out on $18m as Judge Slashes Defamation Award Against Kennedy Agyapong to $500

New Jersey, USA - 12 May, 2025 - A U.S. federal judge has significantly reduced a defamation award against Kennedy Agyapong, a former Member of Parliament for Assin Central in Ghana, from $18 million to just $500.

The lawsuit was filed by investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, who accused Agyapong of making defamatory statements during an online program.

According to court documents, Agyapong allegedly made false and damaging claims against Anas, including accusing him of being involved in the murder of journalist Ahmed Suale. A jury initially found Agyapong liable for maliciously defaming Anas and awarded $18 million in damages.

However, Agyapong's legal team filed a motion for remittitur, arguing that the award was excessive.

The judge agreed, reducing the damages to $500 while maintaining that Agyapong did indeed defame Anas.

Anas expressed disappointment with the reduced award but emphasized that his pursuit of the case was about seeking truth and justice, rather than financial gain.

He reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption and naming those involved.

“Consequent to the finding by the jury, an amount of $18M was awarded in my favour against Kennedy Agyapong. Following the award, Kennedy Agyapong filed a motion for remittitur, asking the judge to reduce the amount awarded against him. Thus, inherent in his motion, Kennedy Agyapong admitted to having maliciously defamed me,” Anas said.

“Today, the trial judge granted Kennedy Agyapong’s motion for remittitur and reduced the initial award to $500. This means that, while the judge held that Kennedy Agyapong had defamed me, in his reasoning, the award against Kennedy Agyapong by the jury was excessive.”

“This fight has not been about the money, but rather, a fight for truth and justice. I am happy that not a single allegation was proven against me in court when Kennedy Agyapong was given full opportunity to substantiate.”

“I will continue in my relentless fight against corruption – and in doing that, continue to name, shame, and jail.”

Source: Lead News Online