The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended the closure of seven radio stations by the Communications Ministry, citing non-compliance with licensing regulations.
The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga has justified the minister’s actions, emphasizing the need for enforcement of the law.
Mahama Ayariga’s defense comes on the heels of a media advisory from the Communications Ministry, which stated that the affected stations were shut down for operating without valid frequency authorizations, violating Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
The stations include Fire Group of Companies, Sunyani (90.1 MHz), I-Zar Consult Limited, Tamale (89.7 MHz), and Abochannel Media Group, Adidome (105.7 MHz), among others.
“The minister will shut the radio stations down today, and tomorrow they should go for authorization,” Mahama Ayariga said in Parliament.
“If the stations had frequency authorization, he wouldn’t have shut them down. Why didn’t he shut down Joy FM, Citi FM, and all other stations that are operating legally?”
He emphasized that all stations must comply with licensing regulations, and those without proper authorization would continue to face shutdowns.
Mahama Ayariga’s comments suggest that the NDC is committed to enforcing the law and ensuring that all radio stations operate within the bounds of the law.
This stance is consistent with the party’s position on the importance of regulatory compliance.
The closure of the radio stations has sparked debate, with some arguing that it is an attack on media freedom.
However, Mahama Ayariga’s defense of the minister’s actions suggests that the NDC is prioritizing the rule of law and regulatory compliance.
In a related development, the government has ordered the immediate closure of Gumah FM in Bawku, citing “urgent national security concerns” raised by the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
-BY Daniel Bampoe
