Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has firmly dismissed claims of political witch-hunting surrounding the recent shutdown of over 60 radio stations across Ghana, including high-profile outlets like Wontumi Radio and Asaase Radio, both of which are perceived to lean towards the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
Addressing Parliament on Thursday, June 12, Sam George made it clear that the government’s action was not an attack on press freedom or political opponents, but a move to enforce the law.
“Our fight is not against free speech, it is against lawlessness, asset misappropriation and regulatory defiance,” he asserted. “I remain committed to reclaiming what rightfully belongs to the Ghanaian people.”
In response to growing public concern and appeals from various quarters, the Minister also announced a presidential directive that offers a temporary reprieve for the affected stations.
“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,” Sam George revealed.
As a result, the Ministry has now granted a 30-day grace period to all stations in breach of NCA regulations.
“Those who fail to do so shall have their authorisation formally revoked under the law,” he warned.
The shutdowns, which sparked intense debate across the media and political landscape, have now taken a new turn—moving from abrupt closures to a window of opportunity for the affected stations to regularize their operations.
Sam George’s statement appears to draw a line between regulatory enforcement and political vendetta, positioning the Ministry as a body seeking compliance, not confrontation.
