Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has initiated a defamation lawsuit against the Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, and a media organization, demanding GH¢30 million in damages. The Nsawam Agyirigyi Member of Parliament (MP) alleges that the defendants falsely implicated him in cocoa smuggling and economic sabotage during a public event on April 28, 2026, and subsequent online publications.
Legal Accusations and Defense
The lawsuit, filed in court, states that the remarks made by the Bono Regional Minister portrayed Mr. Annoh-Dompreh as encouraging cocoa buyers to use government funds to purchase Ivorian cocoa and smuggle it into Ghana. This, the allegations suggest, was intended to undermine the government’s popularity.
Furthermore, the publication claimed that security and anti-smuggling agencies acted on intelligence related to this alleged scheme, leading to the interception of over 100 bags of cocoa. Mr. Annoh-Dompreh vehemently denies these accusations.
Through his legal team, the MP argues that the publication, in its natural interpretation, accused him of instigating illegal cross-border cocoa smuggling, orchestrating an unlawful scheme, abusing his parliamentary office, and engaging in economic sabotage.
He asserts that these allegations are false, malicious, and were published recklessly without any legal justification. Mr. Annoh-Dompreh maintains he has never engaged in, suggested, or endorsed any unlawful activity related to cocoa smuggling.
Dissemination and Reputational Damage
The lawsuit highlights that the defamatory publication has been widely disseminated and remains accessible across various media platforms, reaching audiences both within and outside Ghana.
Mr. Annoh-Dompreh contends that this widespread dissemination has gravely injured his reputation. He claims it has exposed him to public scandal, ridicule, and contempt, significantly lowering him in the estimation of right-thinking members of society.
The alleged false statements have also reportedly caused serious damage to his political career, his public standing, and his international reputation. His credibility as a legislator has been impaired, and public confidence reposed in him by constituents and political colleagues has weakened.
The suit further states that the publication has exposed him to suspicion and potential scrutiny by state institutions and security agencies.
Demand for Retraction and Apology
According to the writ, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh had previously served notice on the defendants, demanding a retraction of the statements and an unqualified apology published with equal prominence. He states that the defendants failed or refused to comply with this demand.
The plaintiff is seeking a legal declaration that the statements made were defamatory. He is also claiming general damages of GH¢20 million and aggravated and exemplary damages totaling GH¢10 million, jointly and severally against the defendants.
Additionally, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh is seeking a court order compelling the defendants to retract the statements and issue an apology on all platforms where the defamatory content was published. He also seeks a perpetual injunction to restrain any further publication of these allegations.
Background of the Plaintiff
The lawsuit details Mr. Annoh-Dompreh’s extensive political career. He describes himself as a long-serving legislator who has continuously served in Ghana’s Parliament since 2013.
He is currently serving his third term as the Member of Parliament for Nsawam Agyirigyi and holds the position of Minority Chief Whip. His parliamentary roles also extend internationally, where he chairs the Committee on Health, Labour and Social Affairs for the West African Caucus at the Pan-African Parliament.
Broader Implications
This legal dispute places a significant political conflict before the courts. The outcome could have substantial implications for political accountability in Ghana.
It also raises questions about media responsibility in reporting on sensitive accusations and the nature of public debate surrounding critical sectors like Ghana’s vital cocoa industry. The case underscores the potential legal ramifications of making unsubstantiated claims against public figures.
What to Watch Next
The public and the political landscape will be closely watching the court proceedings to see how this defamation case unfolds. Key developments will include the evidence presented by both sides and the court’s ruling on the alleged defamatory statements and the substantial damages sought. The case may set precedents for future disputes involving political figures, media outlets, and allegations of economic sabotage in Ghana.
Leave a Reply