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The minority in Parliament is demanding that Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, be summoned to explain the shutdown of seven radio stations across the country.
On February 18, 2025, the minister directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to take enforcement action against the affected stations for operating without valid frequency authorisations. The directive was issued under Section 2(4) of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
The shutdown affected the following stations:
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- Fire Group of Companies—Sunyani (90.1 MHz)
- I-Zar Consult Limited—Tamale (89.7 MHz)
- Abochannel Media Group—Adidome (105.7 MHz)
- Okyeame Radio Limited—Bibiani (99.7 MHz)
- Mumen Bono Foundation – Techiman (99.7 MHz)
- Osikani Community FM—Nkrankwanta (99.7 MHz)
A statement from the Communications Ministry explained that the affected stations had failed to:
- Renew their frequency authorisations.
- Fulfil statutory payment obligations
- Submit required documentation within the deadline.
As a result, their authorisations automatically lapsed, making their operations illegal under Ghana’s broadcasting laws.
However, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has challenged the minister’s directive, arguing that the National Media Commission (NMC)—not the minister—is the appropriate body to oversee media regulation.
“I find it very strange that the minister will issue such a directive. The National Media Commission is responsible for making such determinations.”
He further urged the Leader of Government Business to summon the minister before Parliament to justify the decision and clarify whether due process was followed.
The closure of these stations has reignited concerns over press freedom and regulatory overreach, with stakeholders closely monitoring the government’s next steps.
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