KEY POINTS
- Ghana shuts down seven radio stations over licensing violations and security concerns.
- Six stations failed to renew their authorizations, while one was accused of inciting violence.
- The government warns media houses to comply with broadcasting regulations.
The Ghanaian government has ordered the immediate suspension of seven radio stations due to national security concerns and non-compliance with licensing regulations.
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations Sam Nartey George announced the directive on Tuesday, instructing the National Communications Authority (NCA) to enforce the shutdown immediately.
According to the minister, six of the affected radio stations were operating without valid frequency authorization, while the seventh station, Gumah FM in Bawku, was accused of inciting violence and disrupting public order.
Stations shut down for licensing violations
A media advisory from the ministry outlined that six of the stations were closed because they failed to renew their broadcasting licenses, submit required documentation, or meet statutory payment obligations.
The affected stations include:
- Fire Group of Companies, Sunyani (90.1 MHz)
- I-Zar Consult Limited, Tamale (89.7 MHz)
- Abochannel Media Group, Adidome (105.7 MHz)
- Okyeame Radio Limited, Bibiani (99.7 MHz)
- Mumen Bono Foundation, Techiman (99.7 MHz)
- Osikani Community FM, Nkrankwanta (99.7 MHz)
Furthermore, the NCA cited Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) as the legal basis for shutting down these stations, emphasizing that compliance with licensing laws is non-negotiable.
Security concerns lead to the closure of Gumah FM
The government’s directive to shut down Gumah FM in Bawku was based on national security concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
According to Graphic Online, authorities claim intelligence reports indicated that the station was being used to incite violence and escalate regional tensions.
The decision was made under Section 13(1)(e) of the Electronic Communications Act, which allows the revocation of broadcasting licenses when national security is at risk.
Moreover, Minister Sam George emphasized that the government remains committed to sanitizing Ghana’s airwaves and ensuring that all media houses comply with broadcasting regulations.
The Ministry of Communication assured the public that it would continue monitoring media operations to prevent unauthorized broadcasts, and warned against attempts to operate illegal platforms.
