Communication Minister suspends Seven Radio Stations over National Security and Other Concerns

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has ordered the suspension of Seven radio stations, citing national security concerns and unauthorized broadcasting.

The National Communications Authority Ghana has been directed to enforce the suspension immediately, with further action to follow in the coming days.

According to a statement, Six of the radio stations were shut down for broadcasting without valid frequency authorizations, following a recent frequency audit. The six radio stations include;

– Fire Group of Companies, Sunyani
– I-Zar Consult Limited, Tamale
– Abochannel Media Group, Adidome
– Okyeame Radio Limited, Bibiani
– Moment bono Foundatjkn, Techiman
– Osikani Community FM, Nkrankwanta

He has also ordered the immediate shutdown of Gumah FM Station in Bawku, following urgent National security concerns raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).

The Ministry in a statement revealed that, Intelligence reports indicate that Gumah FM station has been used as a platform to incite violence, disrupt public order and escalate tensions on the region.

The Minister emphasized the need to “sanitize” Ghana’s airwaves and ensure strict compliance with laws governing frequency authorizations. The move is seen as part of a broader effort to regulate the country’s media landscape and enforce adherence to broadcasting regulations.

This is not the first time Ghana’s National Communications Authority has taken action against radio stations. In 2020, the authority suspended Radio Tongu, a privately-owned station, on national security grounds.

Similarly, in 2024, four FM radio stations in the Upper East Region were shut down following recommendations from the Regional Security Council.

Source: Lead News Online