The judgment against former Black Stars Captain Asamoah Gyan, accused of malicious prosecution, is set to be displayed at various locations, including Gyan’s residence, the Ghana Football Association office, and the Law Court complex.
On December 8, 2023, the High Court in Accra, presided over by Justice Ernest Owusu-Dapaa, ruled in favor of journalist Osafo Anthony, who had been prosecuted by Gyan, awarding damages exceeding GHc1 million.
Efforts to inform Gyan about the judgment faced challenges, prompting the plaintiff’s legal team to seek substituted service, which was granted on January 23, 2024.
Justice Owusu-Dapaa approved the posting of copies of the judgment at the High Court Complex, Gyan’s residence, and the Ghana Football Association notice board, with a 14-day display period.
In a related development, Gyan and his manager, deemed the judgment debtors, have expressed their intent to appeal the decision despite the court’s ruling.
The judgment, delivered on December 8, 2023, included damages of GHc900,000 and an additional GHc111,000 for 111 months of lost job income awarded to the plaintiff. Gyan and his manager now face a total liability of GHc1,071,000, which includes a GHc60,000 cost.
Background: In 2019, four individuals were acquitted of charges related to extorting money from Gyan to prevent the publication of a rape and sodomy story. Subsequently, the plaintiff, Osarfo Anthony, initiated a lawsuit against Gyan for malicious prosecution, leading to the recent court judgment.