U.S. Judge Slashes Anas’ $18M Defamation Award Against Kennedy Agyapong to $500 – GhArticles.com
A U.S. federal judge has significantly reduced the $18 million defamation award initially granted against Kennedy Agyapong to just $500, despite upholding the jury’s finding that he maliciously defamed investigative journalist Anas Aremyaw Anas.
The reduction followed a motion for remittitur filed by Agyapong’s legal team, challenging the original award as excessive. The judge agreed, labeling the punitive damages disproportionate, though affirming Agyapong’s liability for defamation.
The case stemmed from a lawsuit filed by Anas, who accused the former Assin Central MP of launching a smear campaign against him. The jury initially awarded Anas $18 million in damages, a verdict many saw as a milestone for press freedom and accountability.
Reacting to the revised ruling, Anas said, “This fight has not been about the money, but rather a fight for truth and justice.” He emphasized that none of the allegations made by Agyapong were proven in court.
Despite the drastic cut in damages, Anas confirmed plans to appeal the decision. “I will continue in my relentless fight against corruption—and in doing that, continue to name, shame, and jail,” he vowed.