In April 2016, Pakistan’s well-known businessman Mr Mian Mohammad Mansha commenced proceedings in the High Court in London against ARY Network Limited that related to serious and defamatory allegations made on a “Kal Tak” programme broadcast in November 2015. The defamatory allegations suggested that Mr Mansha was guilty of money laundering in relation to the acquisition of the St. James Hotel and Club Limited. Later, Mr Mansha vigorously denied each of the allegations as they were according to the former were plainly false and devoid of any merit.
Despite many requests the ARY Network Limited did not provide any evidence in support of any of the allegations.
ARY Network Ltd entered into creditors’ voluntary liquidation on 12 January 2017. Following this, the responsibility for the defence of the proceedings passed to the appointed liquidator.
On 1 February 2017 Ofcom (the UK media regulator) revoked all six Ofcom licences held by ARY Network Limited due to breach of the licence terms.
On 8 June 2018, Mr Justice Nicklin of the High Court in London approved a Consent Order resolving the case/claim on terms that included ARY Network Limited (in liquidation) agreeing to pay Mr Mansha substantial damages of £75,000 and agreed legal costs of £200,000.
The substantial sums agreed to be paid by ARY indicate the seriousness of the case and defamatory allegations made against Mr Mansha, and the distress caused to the latter and his family.
This settlement is a vindication of Mr Mansha’s position. DT has learnt that Mr Mansha is determined that any future defamatory allegations about him, his family or businesses by any media outlet will be dealt with according to law through appropriate action within ‘any applicable jurisdiction.’
Published in Daily Times, July 1st 2018.