John Paintsil, the newly appointed assistant coach of the Black Stars, has filed a lawsuit seeking 80 million Ghana cedis in damages against journalists and media houses for defamation. The lawsuit targets prominent media entities including the Multimedia Group, Omni Media Limited, and Angel Broadcasting Network, as well as individuals such as Patrick Osei Agyemang, Christopher Nimley, Saddick Adams, and Veronica Commey.
The defamation case revolves around accusations that Paintsil used a fake coaching certificate, which allegedly renders him unqualified for his role in Ghana's national football team's technical team.
Among the defendants, Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as “Countryman Songo,” is accused of making defamatory comments published by the Multimedia Group. He is quoted as questioning Paintsil's qualifications, stating, “Are we really willing to cheapen the Black Stars as a coach? Someone who is able to obtain a fake license. He doesn't have a license, but he says he has it.”
Christopher Nimley, speaking on Omni Media Limited, alleged that Paintsil “faked his license A certificate,” while Saddick Adams on Angel Broadcasting Network expressed similar concerns about Paintsil's qualifications.
Veronica Commey, speaking on GTV, claimed that Paintsil “does not have” the required license and presented a “fake certificate” indicating otherwise.
In the lawsuit, Paintsil, represented by Nobisfield Chambers, demands 20 million Ghana cedis each from Multimedia, Omni, and Angel in general damages for defamatory comments. Additionally, Osei Agyemang, Nimley, Saddick, and Veronica are each asked to pay 5 million Ghana cedis in damages.
The defendants are also required to issue an unqualified apology and a public retraction of the statements via the same medium of publication.
While the writ is yet to be served, the burden of proof lies with the defendants. They are expected to enter appearance within eight days from the date of service of the writ, either in person or through legal representation. Failure to do so may result in the plaintiff seeking a judgment in default of appearance from the court.
