MARIAN OBENG MINTAH vs. FRANCIS AMPENYIN

The appellant and respondent began a romantic relationship in October 2000, with the respondent promising to marry the appellant, which did not materialize. The relationship deteriorated within two years. The appellant sued for damages for breach of promise to marry, inconveniences, and loss of time. The respondent denied the claims and counterclaimed for possession of a house and return of certain items. The High Court dismissed the appellant's claims and granted the respondent's counterclaim. The Court of Appeal reversed the dismissal of the appellant's breach of promise claim and awarded GH¢6000 in general damages but dismissed other grounds. The appellant appealed to the Supreme Court challenging the Court of Appeal's findings on her contribution to the house and her status as a licensee.

AKAMBA, JSC:- This is an appeal from the decision of the Court of Appeal that reversed the decision of the trial High Court dismissing the entire claims of the plaintiff, (herein after simply the appellant) and granting the counterclaim of the defendant (hereinafter simply the respondent) in the matter herein. This case epitomizes a love relationship that begun on a very high note only to become sour shortly thereafter fizzling out all hopes of a blissful ever after. As recounted by the Court of Appeal it all begun in October 2000 when the parties in this appeal fell in love. There were promises apparently by the respondent to marry the appellant, for so believed the appellant, which however did not materialize. Barely two years thereafter, the relationship hit the rocks. The appellant who felt shortchanged mounted an action in the High Court seeking damages for a breach of promise to marry; damages for inconveniences and loss of time wasted on the respondent; and payment of variou...