Defamation

Changes to the criminal libel and slander provisions of the South Pacific country’s Penal Code Act mean that Ni-Vanuatu could now face imprisonment for “any representation that is untrue or misleading” on public platforms including “television, radio, internet websites, social networking sites and blog sites”.

The amendments were passed by Vanuatu’s parliament on Monday and will become law once gazetted by the president.

Gottwald sued Kesha in 2014, saying she had fabricated rape claims against him to get out of a recording contract.

In a ruling on Thursday, New York judge Jennifer Schecter said the star had defamed Gottwald when she texted Lady Gaga claiming he had raped Katy Perry.

Kesha was also told to pay interest of $373,671 (£289,000) on late royalties.

The pop star, whose full name is Kesha Rose Sebert, rose to fame in 2009 with Dr Luke-produced hits like Tik Tok and We R Who We R.

Monique Greene claims he assaulted her on his tour bus in Seattle in October.

Nelly, real name Cornell Iral Haynes Jr, was arrested, though the case was dropped after his 22-year-old accuser said she would not testify against him.

Following his arrest, Nelly said he was "completely innocent" and claimed to be "the victim of a false allegation".

The 43-year-old's lawyer said he now plans to countersue and accused Ms Greene of being "motivated by greed".