Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) has filed a lawsuit against the media outlet Fourth Estate, which released “The GH¢3bn Lie Documentary,” accusing SML of receiving a controversial 10-year contract from the Finance Ministry.
In the suit filed on Thursday, February 15, SML claims that the publication has severely damaged its reputation in the public domain, leading to detrimental effects on its operations.
SML is seeking ¢10 million in damages, with one million for defamation and nine million for exemplary damages due to what it describes as reckless and malicious reporting by Fourth Estate.
“Plaintiff says that the onslaught of backlash from the public which has arisen from the Defendants’ false reportage has adversely impacted Plaintiff’s operations.”
“Plaintiff says that although it published rejoinders to the Defendants’ false reportage, the Defendants have failed and/or refused to retract and apologise to the plaintiff for the false information they have consistently peddled.”
Additionally, SML is seeking a perpetual injunction against the publication of further defamatory material, a retraction and apology, and any other orders deemed appropriate by the High Court.
The Fourth Estate’s December 2023 investigative report implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance. The report alleged that GRA had granted SML a purported 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, raising concerns about possible irregularities.
SML refuted the claim, asserting that it had a five-year contract instead. The GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed.
On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance. President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct the immediate audit. SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations.
However, President Akufo-Addo extended the deadline given to audit firm KPMG to complete its audit following its request.