Panday’s appeal of libel judgment begins today

CHIEF JUSTICE Sat Sharma will lead a panel of two Appeal Court judges to begin hearing today of an appeal filed by Opposition Leader Basdeo Panday against the $600,000 libel lawsuit judgment former CCN Chairman Ken Gordon won against him.

Justice Peter Jamadar awarded Gordon $600,000 plus interest and legal cost in a judgment delivered in 2000. Gordon sued Panday for libel arising out of a statement Panday made at an Indian Arrival Day celebration. Part of the sum awarded to Gordon, who is now the chairman of First Citizens Bank, has been deposited in the High Court. The value of the judgment with the accrued interest since 2000 amounts to approximately $1 million. Panday is contending that Gordon failed to make out a case for libel against him in that his use of the words “pseudo racist” was not in reference to the former CCN chairman. Panday’s second ground challenges the sum awarded to Gordon. He is claiming the sum is excessive. Dr Fenton Ramsahoye SC and Anand Ramlogan will begin arguing the appeal on Panday’ behalf this morning. Attorneys Douglas Mendes and Vanessa Gopaul are appearing for Gordon. One of the other judges on the panel is Roger Hamel Smith.