Broadcast sanctions not witch-hunt – Sam George tells Parliament
George insisted the government remains committed to press freedom, but also stressed the need for all broadcasters to operate within the legal framework
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has denied claims that the recent shutdown of more than 60 radio stations—including Wontumi Radio and Asaase Radio—was politically motivated.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday (13 June), the Minister defended the revocations, saying the decision was based purely on regulatory enforcement and not partisan considerations.
“Our goal is not punishment but accountability, order and stewardship of critical resources,” he told lawmakers. “This is not routine housekeeping; this is a declaration against impunity and abuse. The airwaves do not belong to the powerful and connected; they belong to the public, and we are bound to govern them transparently and effectively.”
The shutdowns, which affected several stations reportedly aligned with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), have sparked debate across the country, with some media freedom groups accusing the government of targeting dissenting voices.
George insisted the government remains committed to press freedom, but also stressed the need for all broadcasters to operate within the legal framework.
“Our fight is not against free speech, it is against lawlessness, asset misappropriation and regulatory defiance,” he said. “I remain committed to reclaiming what rightfully belongs to the Ghanaian people.”
In response to public concerns, the Minister announced a directive from President John Dramani Mahama to allow affected stations a grace period to regularise their operations.
“A few minutes ago, the President directed that the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation work with the NCA to allow all the affected radio stations some additional time to correct the identified breaches within a defined time frame,” he said.
“Those who fail to do so shall have their authorisation formally revoked under the law. In line with the directive from the President, the Ministry has granted a further 30 days’ grace period to all the faulting entities.”
The National Communications Authority (NCA) cited violations of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991) as grounds for the shutdowns, part of what the government says is a broader effort to restore discipline and fairness in Ghana’s broadcasting sector.
Asaase Broadcasting Company airs on Asaase 99.5 Accra, Asaase 98.5 Kumasi, Asaase 99.7 Tamale, Asaase 100.3 Cape Coast, AsaasePa 107.3 (Accra).
Affiliates: Azay FM 89.1 (Takoradi), Bawku FM 101.5, Bead FM 99.9 (Bimbilla), Mining City Radio 89.5 (Tarkwa), Nyatefe Radio 94.5 (Dzodze), Somuaa FM 89.9 (Gushegu), Stone City 90.7 (Ho) and Wale FM 106.9 (Walewale).
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