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NCA suspends 3 Wontumi radio stations and 6 others for Serious Regulatory Breaches

4 weeks ago

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NCA suspends nine radio stations – The National Communications Authority (NCA) has taken decisive action against nine radio stations across Ghana for violating broadcasting regulations, a move that has sent ripples through the country’s media industry. Among those affected are three prominent stations owned by Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman, Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi.

This suspension, announced in an official statement dated August 12, follows the end of a 30-day grace period granted by President John Dramani Mahama earlier this year. The period was intended to give defaulting stations the opportunity to fix breaches and align with broadcasting laws, but several operators failed to comply.

NCA Drops the Hammer After Amnesty Period Ends

NCA suspends nine radio stations – According to the NCA, while some stations took corrective steps during the amnesty window, others either failed completely or made insufficient efforts to meet the conditions required. Six stations, in particular, “failed, refused and neglected to comply” with the directive, despite having ample time to act.

The regulator stressed that these breaches are not minor infractions. They include the unauthorised use of Studio-to-Transmitter Link (STL) frequencies, as well as the operation of transmitters from locations that had not been approved. Such practices violate Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations, 2011 (L.I. 1991), which requires all broadcasters to hold a valid Certificate of Compliance.

By operating outside these guidelines, the affected stations were essentially broadcasting without legal authorisation — a serious offense in Ghana’s tightly regulated media sector.

The List of Suspended Radio Stations

The following radio stations have had their operations suspended by the NCA:

Donplus Multimedia Limited (Ho, 105.9 FM)

Dreams Ghana Media Limited (New Abirem, 104.9 FM)

Jam Multimedia Limited (Kintampo, 101.3 FM)

Jewel Group Limited (Duayaw Nkwanta, 102.7 FM)

Kandai Star Community Radio (Kpandai, 107.3 FM)

Unique Gateway Communication Limited

Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited – Accra (95.9 FM)

Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited – Kumasi (101.3 FM)

Wontumi Multimedia Company Limited – Takoradi (101.3 FM)

The inclusion of Wontumi’s media outlets has stirred political and public conversations, given his high-profile role in Ghanaian politics.

NCA’s Firm Stance on Media Regulation

NCA suspends nine radio stations – In its statement, the NCA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing Ghana’s broadcasting laws without fear or favour. The authority emphasised that compliance is essential to ensure a fair, safe, and credible media environment.

“The NCA will continue to monitor the broadcasting space to ensure compliance with the relevant authorisation conditions and the laws and regulations,” the regulator declared.

By suspending these stations, the NCA has sent a clear message: no media operator is above the law, and breaches will be met with swift action.

Why These Regulations Matter

NCA suspends nine radio stations – Broadcasting regulations in Ghana are designed to protect both the industry and the public. Studio-to-Transmitter Link (STL) frequencies, for example, are critical in transmitting high-quality audio from the studio to the transmitter site. Using them without authorisation can lead to frequency interference, affect other broadcasters, and compromise emergency communication systems.

Similarly, operating from unapproved transmitter locations can disrupt the planned allocation of frequencies, leading to technical conflicts and unfair broadcasting advantages.

These rules are not just bureaucratic hurdles, they are safeguards to maintain fairness, order, and the quality of information that reaches Ghanaian audiences.

Industry and Public Reaction

NCA suspends nine radio stations – The suspension has drawn mixed reactions from stakeholders in the media industry. Some see the move as a much-needed enforcement of regulations, which will strengthen professionalism and prevent the misuse of airwaves. Others argue that the NCA should adopt more flexible engagement approaches before resorting to shutdowns, especially given the economic challenges media houses face.

Political observers are also closely watching the fallout, especially because of the involvement of Wontumi Multimedia. Given his political influence, the development could have ripple effects in both media and political circles ahead of future elections.

What Happens Next for the Suspended Stations

NCA suspends nine radio stations – The suspended radio stations will need to address every breach before they can resume operations. This includes securing valid Certificates of Compliance, removing unapproved transmitter setups, and obtaining proper authorisation for STL frequencies.

If these requirements are met, the NCA has the authority to lift the suspensions and allow the stations back on air. However, continued non-compliance could lead to more severe penalties, including the permanent revocation of their broadcasting licences.

A Wake-Up Call for Ghana’s Broadcasting Sector

This mass suspension is likely to serve as a wake-up call to other media operators across the country. The NCA’s message is clear — whether a station is community-based, privately owned, or politically connected, the rules apply equally.

For listeners, the move may disrupt access to some favourite radio programmes in the short term. However, in the long run, stricter enforcement could lead to a more trustworthy and transparent broadcasting landscape in Ghana.