The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has issued a firm 30-day ultimatum to radio stations recently shut down by the National Communications Authority (NCA), warning that failure to rectify their regulatory breaches will result in permanent revocation of their broadcasting licenses.
This announcement, made during a parliamentary session on Thursday, June 12, 2025, comes in the wake of a directive from President John Dramani Mahama earlier that same day. The President instructed the Communications Ministry and the NCA to adopt a more compassionate and democratic approach in resolving the issue, and to work collaboratively with the affected media outlets.
“Mr. Speaker, a few minutes ago, His Excellency John Mahama directed that the Ministry work with the NCA to allow all the affected radio stations some additional time to correct the identified breaches within a defined time frame,” Minister Sam George told Parliament.
The government has, therefore, granted a 30-day grace period to all affected media houses, including high-profile stations like Asaase Radio, Happy FM, and Wontumi FM, which were part of the 64 outlets shut down for failing to comply with sections of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991)—specifically Regulations 54 and 56.
Minister George clarified that while the grace period allows the stations to regularize their operations, it is not an indefinite reprieve.
“Stations that fail to comply within the 30 days will face formal revocation in accordance with the law,” he stressed.
In a significant departure from previous punitive actions, the Minister also announced that all fines previously imposed on these media houses have been waived as part of the government’s “more democratic and compassionate governance policy.”
“This is not the same as the arbitrary revocations and hefty fines imposed under the previous administration,” Sam George remarked. “As a caring government, we are not only giving these stations a second chance, but also waiving all fines that would have otherwise burdened them.”
The NCA’s earlier action, which triggered widespread public debate, involved the closure of 64 radio stations across the country due to regulatory non-compliance. Critics argued that the move could undermine media freedom and limit citizens’ access to information—concerns that have now prompted the President’s intervention.
Sam George further assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to media freedom, professionalism, and regulatory compliance. He emphasized the importance of balancing free expression with adherence to broadcasting standards that safeguard national interest.
The new directive offers a critical opportunity for affected stations to reapply, renew, or adjust their broadcasting licenses and documentation in alignment with NCA guidelines.
Meanwhile, media watchdogs and advocacy groups have welcomed the grace period as a step in the right direction but are urging continued transparency and fairness in the regularization process.
The clock is now ticking for the affected radio stations. With 30 days on the calendar, the next move lies with station owners—either take action to comply or risk losing their broadcasting rights permanently.