President Mahama Orders Immediate Restoration of Shut-Down Radio Stations

President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation to work closely with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately reinstate the broadcast operations of 64 radio stations recently taken off air over regulatory breaches.

The President’s directive, issued on Thursday, June 12, follows growing concerns over the impact of the shutdowns on press freedom. Critics argued that halting the operations of media houses pending the regularisation of their licenses risks stifling free expression and public discourse.

The NCA had earlier ordered the suspension of operations of over 60 FM stations across the country — among them high-profile names such as Asaase Radio and Wontumi FM — citing various infractions related to broadcasting regulations.

However, President Mahama stressed the need for a balanced approach. “The President believes regulatory compliance must take into account the need to uphold and enhance media freedom,” said Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the President’s spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications.

To facilitate a fair and efficient process, the President has directed the Communications Minister to collaborate with the NCA in establishing a reasonable timeframe within which the affected stations can regularise their status.

The move signals the Mahama administration’s commitment to safeguarding democratic values while maintaining regulatory oversight in the media landscape.