Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has revealed that 57 radio stations risk having their frequencies suspended due to violations of regulatory standards.
Speaking to the press on Monday, March 24, the Minister clarified that the suspension is not intended as a punitive action but rather as an opportunity for the stations to address their regulation breaches before they can resume broadcasting.
According to the Minister, six out of approximately 63 radio stations have suspended their frequencies, but this does not mean they will be revoked. The government is taking action to ensure that media houses do not disregard the regulations under the guise of press freedom while failing to meet the conditions of their licences. He further explained that three of the six initially suspended stations have now taken the necessary steps to meet the regulatory requirements and will soon reinstate their frequencies.
“I will be suspending the licences, but I am offering these stations the chance to rectify their violations. Three of the six stations affected in the first phase have already provided the required documentation to restore their frequencies. I will be approving their reinstatement shortly,” the Minister added.
This move highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to enforce compliance within the broadcasting sector while safeguarding press freedom, all within the boundaries set by regulatory frameworks. Affected stations must engage with the regulatory authorities to resolve the issues and prevent further penalties.