A group identifying themselves as Concerned NPP Lawyers has condemned the conduct of Mr. Sampson Lardy Anyenini, lawyer and host of Newsfile on Joy News, accusing him of unethical, unprofessional, and biased commentary, particularly in relation to the judiciary and the former Assin Central MP and 2024 NPP flagbearer hopeful, Kennedy Agyapong.
In a press release dated May 18, and signed by William Kusi, Esq., the Convenor of the group, it claims Mr. Anyenini has consistently used his platform to launch what they describe as slanderous and unfounded attacks against Hon. Agyapong, while simultaneously undermining public confidence in Ghana’s judiciary through inflammatory rhetoric disguised as legal analysis.
The lawyers argue that the seasoned journalist and legal practitioner has crossed the boundaries of professional ethics by making statements that are not supported by any judicial findings. “His use of phrases such as ‘lootocratic politics’ and suggestions that Hon. Agyapong has enriched himself through illicit means or influenced judicial outcomes are defamatory and unsupported by any credible evidence,” the statement read.
Bias
The group also took issue with Mr. Anyenini’s alleged failure to provide a fair opportunity for a response from Hon. Agyapong, describing the act as a violation of the principles of balanced journalism and an abuse of media responsibility.
According to the Concerned NPP Lawyers, Mr. Anyenini’s comments, especially those which compare the Ghanaian Supreme Court unfavorably with foreign jurisdictions, are “deeply damaging” to the image of Ghana’s judiciary.
Irresponsible
They cite one instance where he allegedly implied Ghana’s courts were inferior to those in the United States, a remark they described as “irresponsible and offensive.”
“Such conduct is wholly inconsistent with the ethical standards expected of a journalist, and more critically, a lawyer of Mr. Anyenini’s standing,” the group stated. They further noted that his actions breach the Ghana Journalists Association Code of Ethics as well as the Legal Profession (Professional Conduct and Etiquette) Rules.
The group expressed concern over what they believe is a pattern of politicized media commentary that not only maligns individuals but also attempts to discredit lawful rulings of the Supreme Court by glorifying dissenting opinions.
“This is not just a media issue; it is a matter that affects the integrity of our legal system and the trust the public places in it,” the statement emphasised.
In light of these concerns, the Concerned NPP Lawyers are demanding that Mr. Anyenini publicly retract his “offensive, unethical, and unprofessional remarks” within seven days.
Actions
They outlined a series of actions they are prepared to take if their demands are not met, including a formal petition to the National Media Commission (NMC) over alleged violations of journalistic ethics.
They plan to petition the General Legal Council for professional misconduct. They also plan to write letter to the Multimedia Group Ltd., calling for an internal investigation into the alleged misuse of their platform.
They further signalled a court action to compel a retraction of what they term defamatory statements.
The lawyers were, however, quick to clarify that their actions should not be misconstrued as an attempt to suppress media freedom or silence dissent. “This is a call for responsible speech, particularly from those who wield influence in shaping public discourse,” the statement read.
The lawyers reafirmed their commitment to defending the integrity of Ghana’s legal system and protecting individuals from what they view as media-driven character assassination.
Full press statement from the Concerned Lawyers of NPP below;
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