- MFWA raises concerns over government's shutdown of 7 radio stations
- Foundation warns of threats to press freedom and media pluralism
- MFWA calls for reforms to transfer regulatory authority to NMC
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has expressed concerns over the government’s recent shutdown of seven private radio stations, citing potential threats to press freedom and media pluralism. While acknowledging the need for regulatory enforcement, the MFWA has questioned the fairness and transparency of the shutdowns.
The directive, issued by Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, affected Bawku-based Gumah FM and six other stations accused of operating without valid frequency authorizations. The government has defended the move as a necessary step to uphold broadcasting standards.
However, the MFWA has cautioned that such actions, if unchecked, could erode democratic principles. “Radio plays a crucial role in promoting inclusion and reflecting divergent opinions in the political terrain,” the MFWA stated. “Any intervention in the broadcasting regulation domain by politicians raises suspicions of possible political targeting and favouritism.”
The MFWA has also raised concerns over the manner in which Gumah FM’s closure was handled, arguing that such matters fall under the independent National Media Commission (NMC), not government authorities. “While the accusations may be tenable, we cannot allow a ‘tribunal’ of partisan political players… to prosecute while being themselves the complainants,” the MFWA asserted.
To protect press freedom, the MFWA is calling for urgent reforms to transfer broadcast licensing and regulatory authority from the National Communications Authority (NCA) to the independent NMC. The foundation has warned that continued government interference in media regulation could have severe repercussions. “If this trend is entrenched, critical broadcast stations could be shut down for political reasons,” the statement warned.
