Ghana's Manhyia South Member of Parliament, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has filed a lawsuit against Akwatia MP Bernard Bediako Baidoo and popular broadcaster Abubakar Alhassan, known as Blakk Rasta. The lawsuit, filed in a civil court, seeks redress for allegedly false publications about the MP. According to reports from Accra-based Citi News, Mr. Awuah, who is also a lawyer, opted for a civil court approach rather than pursuing criminal prosecution.
The lawsuit comes amid a recent controversy involving an attempted arrest of Mr. Awuah by officials of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The incident occurred when the MP was seeking the release of Salomey Awiti Bafoh and Camilla Alhassan, whom he represents as legal counsel. Mr. Awuah has accused the government of attempting to intimidate and silence him over his advocacy for the two women, allegations the government has disputed.
EOCO officials claimed that Mr. Awuah was invited twice in February 2026 to assist with an investigation into SIC Life Savings and Loans Company Limited, which his law firm represents. However, Mr. Awuah rejected this explanation, arguing that a representative of his law firm had already cooperated with EOCO investigators on three occasions and submitted a written statement in April 2026. He also alleged that Salomey Awiti Bafoh, a mother of three minor children, was kidnapped by state security agents and remains in police custody.
Despite the controversy and legal action, Mr. Awuah remains committed to securing the release of the two women and reuniting them with their families. The MP did not specify the particular comments or publications by Mr. Baidoo and Blakk Rasta that form the basis of the lawsuit. The government has disputed Mr. Awuah's allegations of intimidation and silencing.
The incident has sparked reactions from various stakeholders, including the Ghana Bar Association, which condemned EOCO's botched arrest of the Manhyia South MP. Other groups and individuals have also weighed in on the matter, calling for calm and urging the parties to seek a peaceful resolution.
Mr. Awuah's decision to pursue a civil lawsuit rather than criminal prosecution has been seen as a demonstration of his commitment to democratic processes. In a statement, he noted that, unlike the government, he had chosen the path of democrats by seeking relief through the civil courts.
The case is ongoing, with stakeholders watching closely for its implications on free speech and the rule of law in Ghana. The lawsuit may have far-reaching consequences for Ghanaian politicians and public figures who use media platforms to share information and engage with the public.
Key points
- Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah sues Akwatia MP and broadcaster Blakk Rasta for allegedly publishing false information.
- The lawsuit is connected to a controversy involving an attempted arrest of Mr. Awuah by EOCO officials.
- The case has sparked debate about free speech and the rule of law in Ghana.
