The High Court in Accra, on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, closed the case of National Security Minister Albert Kan-Dapaah in his GH₵10 million defamation suit against activist Oliver Barker-Vormawor, following the persistent absence of the defendant and his legal counsel.
The court discharged the plaintiff and directed both parties to file their written addresses, setting the stage for the final phase of the high-profile legal battle.
The defamation suit, initiated by Mr. Kan-Dapaah, stems from allegations made by Mr. Barker-Vormawor, a convener of the #FixTheCountry Movement, claiming that the Minister offered him a $1 million bribe and government positions to cease his activism.
Mr. Kan-Dapaah has vehemently denied these claims, asserting they are false and damaging to his reputation, and is seeking substantial damages, an apology, and a perpetual injunction.
Today’s proceedings were slated for the continuation of Mr. Kan-Dapaah’s cross-examination by the defence. However, neither Mr. Barker-Vormawor nor his lawyer was present in court. Counsel for the Plaintiff informed the court that the current adjournment was granted at the Defence’s request, arguing that their absence today indicated a clear disinterest in pursuing their cross-examination of the Plaintiff, which commenced in November 2024.
Given the circumstances, Mr. Kan-Dapaah’s counsel prayed the court to discharge the Plaintiff and deem his case closed, as he had no further witnesses to call. The Court, in its ruling, recounted the numerous adjournments previously granted at the Defendant’s instance, highlighting its consistent indulgence over the period. The Court further noted that Mr. Barker-Vormawor had no Statement of Defence or Witness Statement on record, as his Statement of Defence had been struck out earlier, with no subsequent steps taken to relist it.
Acceding to the Plaintiff’s prayer, the Court discharged Mr. Kan-Dapaah and formally closed his case. This development means that the defence has effectively waived its opportunity to cross-examine the plaintiff further.
The Court has now directed both parties to file their written addresses within three weeks, outlining their final arguments. The case has been adjourned to October 24, 2025, for mention. Additionally, the Court awarded costs of GH₵3,000 against the Defendant, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, for hearing notice and court notes, to be served on him.
This latest turn in the Kan-Dapaah vs. Barker-Vormawor defamation suit marks a significant procedural step, pushing the case closer to a final judgment. Enditem
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