Court throws out request to not publish identity of ‘prophet’ Martin Kofi Danso in case of impregnating congregant

Danso’s lawyer argued that without anonymity, his client will face “emotional, harm, and stress,” particularly if allegations involving other members of the church — which have been posted on social media — are released to the broader public.

“He’s a public figure … he is not someone who will not be harmed by certain allegations,” Daniel Robertson said.

“It cuts both ways, doesn’t it?” replied the judge. “That also brings about the possibility of a public interest when somebody’s out there with 17 churches raising charitable money and tells a couple of big, fat whoppers in a sworn affidavit.”

Danso is the founder of Miracle Arena for All Nations, which operates 17 churches including chapters in Toronto.

Bartley opposed the publication ban and sealing order on the court file, which another judge imposed at the end of July. Myers said he would release his written reasons later on why he rejected Danso’s arguments that a ban was needed to protect his “significant” commercial and financial interests.

While there are currently no other court proceedings underway, Oprea said the issue of child support and custody are still to be determined.

“There is significant public interest in this case,” Oprea told the court. “He presents himself as a leader of a church … a moral, religious, family man,” an image that runs counter to someone who has fathered a child in an extramarital affair.

According to the Miracle Arena website, “Prophet Danso” is a devoted father of four who travels the world “impacting and empowering millions of lives through his powerful preaching and teaching ministry.” His wife, JoAnne Danso, is a reverend in the church known as “Mama.” Court heard Tuesday she is expecting twins in the near future.

The judge ordered Danso to pay $4,500 to cover Bartley’s legal costs.