In a decisive move to uphold press freedom, President John Dramani Mahama has intervened in the ongoing standoff between media houses and regulators by directing the immediate restoration of broadcast for over 60 radio stations recently taken off air by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
The President’s directive, delivered through his Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, signals a firm stance on protecting constitutional rights to free expression while acknowledging the need for regulatory compliance.
This development follows the NCA’s suspension of operations of several FM stations, including high-profile outlets such as Asaase Radio and Wontumi FM, citing multiple regulatory breaches. The move sparked widespread concern among media stakeholders and civil society groups, who feared it could set a troubling precedent for press suppression.
President Mahama, however, has sought to de-escalate tensions by calling for a more constructive and supportive regulatory environment. Rather than punitive shutdowns, the President proposed a collaborative approach that allows the affected stations to continue operations while they resolve their licensing and compliance issues.
“The President believes that enforcing regulations should not come at the expense of media freedom. There must be room for accommodation, dialogue, and reasonable timelines to ensure full compliance,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.
As part of his directive, President Mahama tasked the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation to work closely with the NCA to establish a clear, fair, and time-bound process to guide the regularisation of the affected stations’ authorisations.
Observers have praised the President’s intervention as a crucial step toward safeguarding Ghana’s democratic credentials at a time when global press freedom faces increasing threats. The decision is also seen as a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, independent, and responsible media landscape.
While the NCA’s regulatory authority remains intact, this directive is expected to shift the emphasis from enforcement through shutdowns to reform through engagement—setting a tone for media-regulator relations under Mahama’s administration.
