Samuel Nartey George, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation has stated the recent revocation of over sixty FM broadcast licenses, including Wontumi Radio and Asaase Radio is not a political witch-hunting.
According to Sam George, the fight is not against free speech, but against lawlessness, asset misappropriation and regulatory defiance.
He added that their goal is not punishment but accountability, order and stewardship of critical resources.
Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, June 12, Sam George stated, “Our goal is not punishment but accountability, order and stewardship of critical resources. 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,” he told the House.
“Our fight is not against free speech, it is against lawlessness, asset misappropriation and regulatory defiance. I remain committed to reclaiming what rightfully belongs to the Ghanaian people.”
He added, “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.
“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 Minister added.
Sixty-four radio stations were shut down with two radio stations affiliated with the opposition New Patriotic Party.
According to the reports, Wontumi FM and Asaase Radio together with some other stations have been shut down by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
The information gathered suggests, more than 60 FM broadcasting stations across the country.
The 64 radio stations have been shut down for failing to comply with broadcasting regulations.
Wontumi FM’s Takoradi outlets are reportedly among the affected radio stations listed in the NCA’s enforcement action announced on Wednesday, June 12, 2025.
A statement by the NCA specified that out of 64 media houses that were shut down, “28 were found to be operating with expired authorisations, while 14 received authorisation but failed to set up operations within two years, breaking the regulatory timelines.
Thirteen were also operating under provisional authorisation, despite having paid the required fees.
The remaining seven stations paid provisional fees, but final authorisation is pending due to non-fulfilment of requirements under Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations”.
Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has requested the restoration of Asaase Radio, Wontumi FM and 62 others shut down by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
A statement from the presidency signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications revealed Mahama has requested the restoration of those stations.
