Ghana shuts down private radio station over security concerns

Ghana’s broadcasting authority has shutdown a private community radio station whose management said it is being targeted in a crackdown.

The National Communication Authority said on February 5, that it suspended the license of Radio Tongu, owned by the Tongu Community Multimedia Network on grounds of “national security and public interest”.

The Authority also said it revoked the licence of the media house in “accordance with security and in the public interest.”

According to Ghana’s Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775) also provides that “the Authority may suspend or revoke a license or a frequency authorization where: the suspension or revocation is necessary because of national security or is in the public interest.”

Media reports have also linked the development to an earlier arrest of manager of Radio Tongu, Bestway Zottor, who allegedly is tied secessionist group, Homeland Study Group Foundation.

The NCA, however, noted in the statement it had earlier conducted series of investigations after receiving frequent petitions regarding activities of management of the station.

The letter also warned that “failure to comply with this directive will result in the arrest and prosecution of the directors of Radio Tongu.”

See full statement below:

Source: Jonathan Ofori, Daily Mail GH