A Plus apologizes to businessman after 'losing' defamation suit

Ghanaian musician-turned-politician Kwame Asare Obeng, alias A Plus, has apologized to businessman and philanthropist Hassan Zein.

The apology posted on his verified Facebook page on May 14, comes after a defamation lawsuit initiated by Zein in 2022, citing damaging comments made by A Plus.

The legal dispute, according to court papers centered around defamatory statements made by A Plus that tarnished Zein's reputation.

“Dear Hassan Abu Zein, I am writing to express my sincerest apologies for any harm caused by my comments made about you. It has come to my attention that these comments were based on lies and misinformation spread by Stanley, your jealous friend. He is a dangerous guy. Very!!!

“It may interest you to know that I've spent my adult life, fighting for the voiceless, underprivileged persons, especially women and children, and minority groups. However, I must admit that I was misinformed on this particular matter. I am grateful to you for the opportunity to apologize to bring finality to the matter.

“I deeply regret any distress or damage these false statements may have caused you and your reputation. It was never my intention to propagate falsehoods or tarnish your name in any way,” A Plus' post read in part.

He added “I understand the seriousness of defamation and the impact it can have on individuals and their livelihoods. As a people-centered person, I take full responsibility for my actions and assure you that I will take appropriate measures to rectify this situation.

“Please accept my heartfelt apologies. I am committed to setting the record straight and ensuring that the truth is known. If there is anything I can do to make amends, please do not hesitate to let me know.”

Court documents reveal that Zein sought various reliefs, including a declaration of defamation, general damages amounting to GH¢10 million, and an order for A Plus to retract the defamatory comments via the same medium used for dissemination.

Additionally, Zein requested a public apology from A Plus within seven days, utilizing the same platform where the defamation occurred.

He also sought a perpetual injunction to prevent further defamation against his reputation as the International Human Rights Commission Ambassador at large.

The case, which had been progressing in the High Court in Accra, took a turn when A Plus, represented by legal counsel, opted to settle the matter out of court. The decision led to an amicable resolution facilitated by both parties.

On January 22, 2024, a settlement agreement was reached between A Plus and Zein, subsequently adopted as a consent judgment by Justice Kwasi Adjenim-Boateng on January 29, 2024.

The terms of the settlement include A Plus retracting the defamatory remarks and removing Zein's image from the original platform of publication.

Moreover, A Plus committed to issuing a public apology to Zein through the same medium. As part of the settlement, A Plus agreed to pay 100,000 in costs to Zein, as stipulated in court documents.