Lawyers for Mrs. Elsie Appau-Klu, a Deputy Commissioner at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), have issued a strongly worded legal notice to GhanaWeb, demanding an immediate retraction and public apology over what they describe as a false, defamatory, and malicious publication.
The article in question, published on Monday, July 14, 2025, was titled “Deputy GRA Commissioner dragged before EOCO, CHRAJ over ‘unlawful’ land encroachment claims”. The publication alleges that Mrs. Appau-Klu was implicated in a land dispute involving the use of state security and thugs to demolish structures on disputed land in Oyarifa.
In a letter dated July 14, 2025, legal firm Kpatsa & Associates, acting on behalf of Mrs. Appau-Klu, addressed the CEO and editor of GhanaWeb, Mr. David Antwi and Mr. Kojo Smith respectively. The firm described the publication as “tainted with malice” and “deliberately aimed at tarnishing” Mrs. Appau-Klu’s reputation.
“There is no iota of truth in your said publication,” the letter stated. “It is false, groundless, and damaging to our client’s integrity, professional reputation, and personal standing.”
The lawyers further criticized GhanaWeb for publishing allegations based solely on a petition by one Nana Awuku Bram, which they claim contains unverified and unsubstantiated claims. They also accused GhanaWeb of failing to verify the facts or seek a response from Mrs. Appau-Klu before publication, calling it a “reckless disregard for the truth.”
The legal team has demanded four specific actions from GhanaWeb within 48 hours of receiving the letter:
1. A prompt and unconditional retraction of the article from all platforms.
2. A public apology to Mrs. Appau-Klu, prominently displayed on GhanaWeb’s homepage within six hours of retraction.
3. Immediate cessation of further publications related to the allegations.
4. Preservation of all editorial correspondence and digital evidence for potential legal proceedings.
The notice warned that failure to comply with these demands will result in legal action against GhanaWeb and its editorial management for defamation, reputational damage, and emotional distress.
The legal correspondence was signed by Senanu S.M. Ashiagbor, Esq., on behalf of Mrs. Appau-Klu, emphasizing that she has abided by all legal processes and never abused her public office.
As of this report, GhanaWeb has not publicly responded to the allegations or the demands from Mrs. Appau-Klu’s legal team.
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