In a significant legal development, the Finance Minister of Ghana, Ken Ofori-Atta, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Blessed Godsbrain Smart, popularly known as Captain Smart, host of Onua TV’s Morning Show. The lawsuit comes in response to allegations made by Captain Smart during one of his shows, where he claimed that the Finance Minister had taken a 10% share of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) $3 billion bailout intended for Ghana.
According to Mr. Ofori-Atta, Captain Smart’s statement falsely portrays him as corrupt. The Minister’s lawyers argue that the allegations are damaging to his reputation and have demanded a sum of Ten Million Ghana Cedis (GH¢10,000,000.00) as general damages, including aggravated and/or exemplary damages for defamation.
In addition to the financial compensation, Ken Ofori-Atta seeks a perpetual injunction to prevent Captain Smart, whether directly or through his agents, from making similar defamatory statements in the future. The Minister also expects Captain Smart to issue a public apology and retract the false statement.
It is worth noting that Ghana’s request for a $3 billion bailout over a three-year period to support the nation’s recovery has recently been approved. This approval has resulted in the immediate release of $600 million, marking the initial stage of the transaction between Ghana and the IMF.
As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen how the defamation lawsuit against Captain Smart will progress. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for both parties involved and may impact the public perception of the Finance Minister. Meanwhile, Ghana’s approval for the $3 billion bailout represents a crucial step in the country’s efforts to address its debt burden and facilitate economic recovery.
