Asaase Radio, Wontumi FM shut down for regulatory violations

The National Communications Authority (NCA) has ordered the immediate suspension of operations by more than 60 FM broadcasting stations across the country, including prominent outlets such as Asaase Radio and Wontumi FM, over multiple regulatory breaches.

The enforcement action targets stations found to be operating with expired authorisations, unpaid licence fees, or failure to meet set-up conditions stipulated under the Electronic Communications Act and its accompanying regulations.

A recent audit by the NCA backed by a ministerial directive revealed widespread non-compliance, prompting the crackdown aimed at restoring order and adherence to broadcasting standards.

Checks by Citi News indicate that Asaase Radio, which broadcasts on 99.5 FM, is currently off air.

Out of the 62 affected stations:

• 28 were found to be operating with expired authorisations.
• 14 received authorisation but failed to set up operations within two years, breaching regulatory timelines.
• 13 are operating under provisional authorisation, despite having paid the required fees.
• 7 stations paid provisional fees, but final authorisation is pending due to non-fulfilment of requirements under Regulation 54 of the Electronic Communications Regulations.

The NCA reiterated that all broadcasters must comply fully with licensing obligations to remain operational and assured the public that the authority will continue its monitoring and enforcement efforts.

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