Alexander Afenyo-Markin’s GH₵15m defamation suit dismissed by High Court

The High Court in Accra has dismissed a GH₵15 million defamation lawsuit filed by Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin against Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board. In a ruling delivered on October 14, 2026, the court determined that the legal action was fundamentally flawed due to procedural defects in the writ of summons. Specifically, the presiding judge found that the plaintiff failed to include sufficient particulars of the alleged defamatory remarks, which is a mandatory requirement under the High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules for libel actions.

The legal dispute originated from comments Gyamfi reportedly made during a broadcast in August 2026 on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme. During a discussion concerning the Bank of Ghana’s Domestic Gold Purchase Programme and allegations of significant financial losses, Gyamfi allegedly referred to the Minority Leader as an "extortionist." In response, Afenyo-Markin sought damages, a public apology, and a retraction. However, the court’s decision to annul the writ and statement of claim filed on August 24, 2026, was based on the failure to endorse the specific statements complained of, as required by Order 57, Rule 2.

Legal counsel for Afenyo-Markin expressed determination to pursue the case to its logical conclusion despite the procedural setback. They accused Gyamfi’s legal team of utilizing "procedural roadblocks" and technicalities to avoid addressing the substance of the defamation claims. The legal team noted that Gyamfi’s representatives had previously acknowledged receipt of the court documents before later returning them and claiming their client had changed his mind. They emphasized that justice should not be sacrificed for technical errors and indicated they would review the ruling before deciding on the next steps, which could include re-filing the suit.

Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has advised against further litigation, suggesting that the parties seek an amicable resolution to maintain cooperation between the government and the opposition. Speaking on JoyFM’s Top Story, Kpebu argued that the lawsuit diverts attention from national development and that time would be better spent scrutinizing governmental actions. While the court did not rule on the merits or truth of the allegations, the current proceedings ended without an order as to costs, leaving the possibility open for Afenyo-Markin to initiate a new, procedurally compliant action if he chooses.