Ex-MP Owns $1.8M in New Jersey Real Estate Amid Defamation Ruling
Former Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong owns at least three properties in New Jersey, valued at over $1.8 million, which could be used to settle the $18 million defamation judgment awarded to journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas. Public records from Essex County, New Jersey, indicate Agyapong’s ownership of these assets, raising speculation on whether they will be leveraged to pay the legal settlement.
The Superior Court of New Jersey recently ruled against Agyapong and Frederick Asamoah, a social media commentator, over defamatory statements made in 2021. The court’s decision sparked discussions on how the Ghanaian businessman and politician will cover the damages. His West Orange, Newark, and East Orange properties, purchased between 2005 and 2007, collectively exceed $1.8 million in market value, making them potential assets for settlement.
According to records, Agyapong’s West Orange residence was acquired for $980,000 and is currently valued at approximately $1.08 million. His Newark property, purchased for $490,000, has a market value of $342,090, while the East Orange home, bought for $365,000, is now worth $415,175. These properties are among his known U.S. holdings, though he may own additional assets elsewhere.
The judgment, which followed a long legal battle, stemmed from defamatory allegations against Anas during a 2021 social media interview. Legal experts suggest that Agyapong’s U.S. assets could be targeted if he fails to voluntarily comply with the ruling. Given his significant investments in real estate abroad, it remains to be seen whether the properties will be liquidated or seized to satisfy the debt.
Source: GhanaWeb