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The Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation has announced an extension of the grace period for 18 out of over 60 radio stations recently shut down by the National Communications Authority (NCA), following limited compliance efforts.
The initial shutdown, which took place on June 12, saw the closure of 64 radio stations, including popular outlets such as Asaase Radio, Happy FM, and Wontumi FM, for breaching provisions of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991)—particularly Regulations 54 and 56. The enforcement move was met with widespread attention and led to immediate government intervention.
That same day, President John Mahama directed the NCA and the Ministry to work towards restoring services, resulting in a 30-day grace period for the affected stations to rectify their regulatory breaches.
Three weeks on, Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George revealed at a press briefing that only 18 stations had formally contacted the NCA to begin addressing their compliance issues. With just 9 days left in the original grace period, he noted that most of these stations are unlikely to meet the full requirements in time.
In the interest of fairness and to prevent any perception of a deliberate witch-hunt, Mr. George said, “I have instructed the NCA to issue a 30-day extension to the 18 radio stations that have shown a willingness to comply.”
However, the Minister was clear that the remaining stations, which have made no effort to engage with regulators since the shutdown, will face full enforcement of the suspensions.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to ensure regulatory compliance without stifling media operations.
