A total of 58 out of 64 radio stations earlier earmarked for closure have taken significant steps to regularise their operations following a 30-day amnesty granted by the government, Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation Samuel Nartey George has disclosed.
The amnesty, issued under the directive of President John Dramani Mahama, provided the affected stations with a final grace period to resolve regulatory breaches identified during a nationwide frequency audit conducted by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
Addressing the media during the Government Accountability Series on Friday, August 1, 2025, in Accra, Sam George noted that the 58 stations have submitted letters of intent and commenced the process of updating their licenses, documentation, and payment of associated levies.
“We are encouraged by the proactive steps taken by the 58 stations. It shows that when the state offers a second chance, responsible broadcasters respond appropriately,” the minister stated.
However, he issued a stark warning to the remaining 210 non-compliant broadcasters who have not initiated any form of engagement with the NCA.
“For those who have still not taken any steps, there will be no further announcements. There will simply be enforcement,” he said firmly.
The clampdown is part of a broader strategy to reclaim and properly regulate Ghana’s electromagnetic spectrum, which Sam George emphasised is public property and must be protected from abuse.
The frequency audit uncovered extensive infractions across the broadcasting sector, including illegal transmission, expired licenses, and unpaid regulatory fees. Tax-related penalties from the audit’s first phase are estimated at GH¢9.5 million.
He clarified that the enforcement drive is not politically motivated but purely regulatory.
“This is not an attack on press freedom. It is about accountability. Frequencies are public assets. Those who occupy them must operate within the law and ensure proper documentation and compliance with NCA regulations,” he said.
Already, a number of offending stations have been taken off air, and the NCA has begun compiling a fresh list of defaulters for possible sanctions if they fail to act before the next phase of enforcement begins.
The minister urged all media owners to prioritise compliance, warning that habitual violations will no longer be tolerated under the current administration.
“As we continue to build a digital economy, regulatory discipline is non-negotiable. The law must apply equally to all,” he concluded.
Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the WhatsApp channel
GOT A STORY?
Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or Email: manuelnkansah33@gmail.com