Ghanaian Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has initiated legal action against the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and popular broadcaster Abubakar Alhassan, known as Blakk Rasta. On September 28, 2026, Baffour Awuah filed a Writ of Summons, citing the publication of falsehoods that have allegedly damaged his reputation. The lawsuit targets statements made by the two defendants that Baffour Awuah claims are defamatory.
According to Baffour Awuah, the decision to pursue a civil action rather than criminal proceedings was a deliberate choice, reflecting his commitment to democratic principles. Unlike the government's approach, he opted for a civil court to address the alleged publication of false information. This approach, he stated, aligns with the values of democrats. The legal action comes amid ongoing disputes involving the detention of Salomey Awiti Baffoe and Camilla Alhassan.
The detention of Salomey Awiti Baffoe and Camilla Alhassan has been a contentious issue, with Baffour Awuah alleging that state security agencies are holding them in police custody to intimidate him. He claimed that Salomey Baffoe, a mother of three, was taken into custody by state security agents late on a Saturday. Baffour Awuah emphasized that these actions would not deter him from fighting for the rights of the two women.
Baffour Awuah's immediate focus remains on securing the freedom of Salomey Awiti Baffoe and Camilla Alhassan, ensuring their return to their families. He stated that he is committed to fighting for their liberty, emphasizing the need for their reunification with their families. The MP's efforts to secure their release have been a priority, despite the challenges posed by state security agencies.
The Akwatia MP, Bernard Bediako Baidoo, and Blakk Rasta have not publicly commented on the lawsuit filed by Baffour Awuah. However, their alleged statements have been cited as the basis for the Writ of Summons. The case is expected to proceed in the civil courts, with Baffour Awuah seeking redress for the alleged damage to his reputation.
This lawsuit is part of a broader context of disputes involving Ghanaian politicians and public figures. Baffour Awuah has previously been involved in controversies, including a failed arrest attempt and issues related to parliamentary immunity. The outcome of this case may have implications for the interpretation of defamation laws in Ghana.
The case highlights the complexities of political disputes in Ghana, where issues of reputation, free speech, and political immunity often intersect. As the case unfolds, it will likely attract significant attention from the Ghanaian public and media, given the prominence of the individuals involved.
Key points
- Baffour Awuah files a Writ of Summons against Akwatia MP Bernard Baidoo and broadcaster Blakk Rasta for alleged defamation.
- The lawsuit cites false and defamatory statements that have allegedly damaged Baffour Awuah's reputation.
- The case is part of a broader dispute involving the detention of two women, Salomey Awiti Baffoe and Camilla Alhassan.
