Afenyo-Markin Files Defamation Suits Ghana Over Extortion Claims

• Ghana's Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has filed two defamation lawsuits in Ghana following extortion allegations.
• The suits target individuals and media organizations, including Samuel Adu-Gyamfi, Multimedia Group Limited, Eric Agjei, and Peace FM.
• One case is before the Accra High Court (GT 1029/2026), and the other is at the Achimota Circuit Court (GR/ACH/CC/C5/02/2026).
• Afenyo-Markin publicly stated his readiness to cooperate with any formal investigation into the allegations made by Ghana Gold Board CEO Sammy Gyamfi.
• He emphasized his confidence in the courts and cautioned against crossing ethical boundaries in political discourse.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Ghana's Minority Leader, has initiated legal proceedings in Ghana to address allegations of extortion leveled against him.

Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Ghana's Minority Leader, has initiated legal proceedings in Ghana to address allegations of extortion leveled against him. The prominent political figure has filed two separate defamation suits, demonstrating a proactive approach to clearing his name through the country's judicial system. These actions underscore a growing trend among public figures to leverage legal avenues to combat reputational damage.

One of the significant cases, identified as suit number GT 1029/2026, has been lodged at the Accra High Court. This particular action, titled Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin versus Samuel Adu-Gyamfi and Multimedia Group Limited, targets both an individual accuser and a media organization. Concurrently, a second legal challenge, suit number GR/ACH/CC/C5/02/2026, has been filed at the Achimota Circuit Court. This second suit, Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin versus Eric Agjei and Peace FM, similarly involves an individual and a media entity, indicating a broad strategy to address the dissemination of the allegations.

By pursuing these defamation suits in Ghana, Afenyo-Markin aims for a formal judicial determination on the veracity of the claims. His decision to engage the Accra High Court and the Achimota Circuit Court highlights the specific legal channels available for public figures seeking redress against what they perceive as false accusations. The Minority Leader has expressed confidence that the courts will ultimately deliver appropriate judgments on these matters.

The legal actions by Mr. Afenyo-Markin stem directly from Alexander Afenyo-Markin extortion allegations, which were publicly made by Sammy Gyamfi, the Chief Executive of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod). These claims have prompted a strong and public response from the Minority Leader, who has unequivocally stated his readiness to cooperate with any formal investigation into the matter.

Speaking during an emergency recall sitting of Parliament on Monday, August 24, 2026, Afenyo-Markin challenged those making the allegations to formally report them to the appropriate authorities. He specifically named the Police, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), or any other competent investigative agency as suitable bodies to receive such reports. He affirmed his commitment to fully participate in any inquiry, stating that he would submit himself to every investigation to ensure his name is cleared if the accusations are formally presented and he is invited to respond.

In addition to pursuing legal remedies, Afenyo-Markin articulated his rationale for taking what he described as the “high moral ground” in the face of the allegations. His decision to file defamation suits in Ghana reflects a belief in the judicial process as a means to resolve disputes and protect one's reputation. He emphasized his confidence in the courts to make fair and just determinations regarding the claims.

The Minority Leader also used the opportunity to comment on the boundaries of political discourse, cautioning against what he termed unacceptable lines being crossed. He stressed that there are inherent limits to political debate, and once these “red lines” are breached, they must be addressed decisively. Furthermore, Afenyo-Markin defended his tenure as Minority Leader, asserting that he has served in the position with integrity, diligence, and a clear conscience, remaining faithful to the responsibilities entrusted to him.

This case illustrates a prominent Ghanaian political figure's active use of the courts (Accra High Court, Achimota Circuit Court) to address allegations of extortion and clear his name. Lawyers should note the specific legal avenues pursued (filing writs) and the courts involved, as this provides a practical example of defamation/libel litigation in Ghana, particularly concerning public figures and political discourse, which can inform advice to clients on reputational management and legal recourse against false accusations.

Source: Original reporting via Emma Ankrah