In a significant move to safeguard press freedom, President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation to work with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately restore the broadcast of 64 radio stations affected by regulatory shutdowns.
The President’s directive comes after concerns were raised about the regulator’s action, which could limit the space for expressing freedom of expression. President Mahama believes that regulatory compliance must take into account the need to uphold and enhance media freedom.
According to a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications, the President has asked the Minister to work with the NCA on a reasonable timeframe within which the affected stations should regularise their authorisation.
The statement reads: “President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation to liaise with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to immediately restore the broadcast of sixty-four (64) radio stations affected by the regulator’s action.”
The President’s move is seen as a bold step to protect press freedom and promote media independence in the country. The directive is expected to bring relief to the affected radio stations, which have been shut down due to regulatory issues.
The statement added that “The President believes that regulatory compliance must take into account the need to uphold and enhance media freedom, and that requiring radio stations to shut down while awaiting the regularisation of their authorisation could limit the space for expressing such freedoms.”
The President’s directive is a welcome development for media practitioners and stakeholders who have been advocating for press freedom and media independence in the country. The move is expected to promote a free and independent media, which is essential for a democratic society.