The Acting Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s Forestry Commission, Hugh Clement A. Brown, has filed a GHC20 million defamation lawsuit against Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, a prominent opposition figure and Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party.
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit stems from allegations made by Abronye DC on his online television platform, OHIA TV, where he accused Brown of forging official documents and unlawfully authorizing the sale of portions of Ghana’s forest reserves. Brown allegedly backdated letters to implicate the previous administration, according to Abronye DC. The accused also claimed Brown collected payments through unofficial means and diverted proceeds from forest reserves into private hands.
Brown’s Response
However, Brown disputes these claims, asserting he hadn’t assumed the position of Acting CEO when the documents were allegedly signed. He also dismissed suggestions of trying to frame the NPP by backdating permits or making financial irregularities. Brown’s legal team described the statements as malicious and without factual basis, implying Brown is “an embezzler, a dishonest and fraudulent person”.
Reliefs Sought
As part of his reliefs, Brown is requesting:
– Six Televised Apologies: To be aired on national channels, including GTV, TV3, Joy TV, and OHIA TV
– Printed Retractions: In the Daily Graphic over four consecutive weeks
– Formal Apology: To be posted on all OHIA TV digital platforms
– Damages: GHC15 million in general damages for libel and GHC5 million in exemplary damages
The defendant, Abronye DC, has not yet responded formally to the lawsuit.