Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure faced intense questioning in court regarding his series of articles titled “Darkness in a Lighthouse,” which accused Lighthouse Chapel International (LCI) of various misconduct. The LCI sued Azure, the Media Foundation for West Africa, Sulemana Braimah, and Edwin Appiah for publishing the articles, claiming it infringed on their constitutional right to expression. During cross-examination, Azure was questioned about Ghana’s laws protecting reputation and press freedom, as well as his past statements on being held accountable for his publications. Azure admitted to being found guilty of contempt of court in relation to the articles but clarified that it was different from a defamation case. Azure was further questioned about his training as a journalist, particularly in publishing court matters without bias. The court also scrutinized Azure’s accusations against LCI, including claims of unpaid social security benefits to resigned pastors, which were based on documents submitted by the pastors for the court’s evaluation. Despite a SSNIT report clearing LCI of owing social security contributions, Azure stood by his articles alleging incriminating evidence against the church. LCI argued that Azure and the defendants lacked evidence to support their claims regarding the church’s finances and ownership of certain properties. The court adjourned the proceedings for further cross-examination, with the next hearing scheduled for July 22, 2024.
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https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/Lighthouse-Chapel-defamation-case-Manasseh-Azure-grilled-during-cross-examination-1937625
