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“Anas Dumb & Muted After U.S. Court Slashes $18M to $500 in Ken’s Favor” discusses the dramatic reduction of a defamation award in a high-profile legal battle between Ghanaian investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas and former Member of Parliament Kennedy Agyapong.
🧑⚖️ Background of the Case
In March 2025, a jury in New Jersey awarded Anas $18 million in damages after finding that Agyapong had defamed him by labeling him a “criminal” and implicating him in the 2019 murder of fellow journalist Ahmed Suale. These defamatory remarks were made during a podcast recorded in the U.S.
⚖️ Court’s Decision to Reduce the Award
However, in May 2025, a New Jersey judge ruled that the $18 million award was “disproportionate and legally unsustainable,” reducing it to just $500. The judge’s decision followed a request by Agyapong’s legal team to lower the amount, arguing that the original sum was excessive.
🗣️ Reactions from Both Parties
Anas expressed disappointment with the reduction but emphasized that the case was never about money. His media group, Tiger Eye P.I., stated that the lawsuit aimed to defend his reputation and uphold press freedom.
On the other hand, Agyapong’s media team claimed that there was never an $18 million judgment against him, asserting that the $500 award was the final and sole amount granted by the court.
📺 Video Content Overview
The video delves into the implications of the court’s decision, analyzing how the significant reduction in damages affects the reputations of both Anas and Agyapong. It also explores the broader impact on investigative journalism and political discourse in Ghana.
For a comprehensive understanding of the case and its ramifications, you can watch the full video here: