The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has raised concerns over the Mahama administration’s decision to shut down some radio stations, warning that political interference in media regulation could erode press freedom in Ghana.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the MFWA emphasised the critical role of radio in fostering inclusivity and diverse opinions within the political landscape.
“Radio plays a crucial role in promoting inclusion and reflecting divergent opinions in the political terrain,” the foundation noted, cautioning that “any intervention in the broadcasting regulation domain by politicians raises suspicions of possible political targeting and favouritism.”
A particular point of contention for the MFWA is the closure of Gumah FM, which it argues falls under the jurisdiction of the independent National Media Commission (NMC), rather than government officials.
“While the accusations may be tenable, we cannot allow a ‘tribunal’ of partisan political players such as the sector minister, the Regional Minister, the Director General of the NCA, the National Security Coordinator, among partisan persons, to prosecute, while being themselves the complainants.
“Even if the decision was based on intelligence advice, the facts and evidence must be put before the NMC for it to recommend the shutdown if convinced,” the MFWA stated.
To prevent further political interference, the MFWA is calling for urgent reforms to transfer the authority over broadcast licensing and regulation from the National Communications Authority (NCA) to the independent NMC.
“The MFWA fears that if this trend is entrenched, critical broadcast stations can be shut down… for political reasons,” it warned.
