Agogo Traditional Council Appeals for the Reopening of Salt FM
The Agogo Traditional Council, headed by Nana Akuoko Sarpong, has made a fervent appeal to the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, urging her intervention in the reopening of Salt FM, a vital private radio station serving over 65 towns and villages in the traditional area.
Related To This: Salt FM Shut Down by NCA Over Non-renewal of Authorization License
The impassioned plea, detailed in a petition signed by Nana Akuoko Sarpong, emphasized Salt FM's historical significance as a primary source of information for the community. The radio station's management has reportedly pledged to address licensing issues and promised to rectify any infractions, aiming for compliance by the first quarter of 2024. Nana Sarpong's request to the minister seeks direction to the National Communications Authority (NCA) to facilitate the reopening of Salt FM, enabling the necessary paperwork rectification.
Background Closure of Salt FM and NCA's Actions in Bawku
Salt FM had faced closure by the NCA due to a delay in license renewal following its expiration in December. The Agogo Traditional Council asserted the adverse impact of the station's shutdown on the community's information access and development dialogues severely.
Meanwhile, in a related move, the NCA shut down four radio stations in Bawku, comprising Bawku FM, Source FM, Zahra FM, and Gumah FM. This action took place under heavy military presence following recommendations from the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
Related To This: Salt FM Shut Down by NCA Over Non-renewal of Authorization License
The impassioned plea, detailed in a petition signed by Nana Akuoko Sarpong, emphasized Salt FM's historical significance as a primary source of information for the community. The radio station's management has reportedly pledged to address licensing issues and promised to rectify any infractions, aiming for compliance by the first quarter of 2024. Nana Sarpong's request to the minister seeks direction to the National Communications Authority (NCA) to facilitate the reopening of Salt FM, enabling the necessary paperwork rectification.
Background Closure of Salt FM and NCA's Actions in Bawku
Salt FM had faced closure by the NCA due to a delay in license renewal following its expiration in December. The Agogo Traditional Council asserted the adverse impact of the station's shutdown on the community's information access and development dialogues severely.
Meanwhile, in a related move, the NCA shut down four radio stations in Bawku, comprising Bawku FM, Source FM, Zahra FM, and Gumah FM. This action took place under heavy military presence following recommendations from the Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC).
Related To This: NCA Introduces Media Content Complaints Platform
Rationale for Closure in Bawku
These closures are attributed to the Ministry of National Security's advice regarding the stations' perceived role in exacerbating the age-old conflict in Bawku. Allegations pointed to provocative remarks by panelists and presenters heightening tensions and contributing to the conflict's escalation, resulting in casualties and property damage. The NCA justified its decision under the Electronic Communications Act, invoking powers to safeguard national security and public interest.
The NCA assured compliance with regulations while emphasizing collaboration with stakeholders to execute its mandate effectively, underscoring the importance of adherence to communication ministry regulations and guidelines.
The conflict in Bawku continues to impact social and economic dynamics, prompting public sector workers and institutions to relocate, highlighting the enduring challenges in Bawku's social fabric caused by the protracted conflict between Kusasis and Mamprusis.
Rationale for Closure in Bawku
These closures are attributed to the Ministry of National Security's advice regarding the stations' perceived role in exacerbating the age-old conflict in Bawku. Allegations pointed to provocative remarks by panelists and presenters heightening tensions and contributing to the conflict's escalation, resulting in casualties and property damage. The NCA justified its decision under the Electronic Communications Act, invoking powers to safeguard national security and public interest.
The NCA assured compliance with regulations while emphasizing collaboration with stakeholders to execute its mandate effectively, underscoring the importance of adherence to communication ministry regulations and guidelines.
The conflict in Bawku continues to impact social and economic dynamics, prompting public sector workers and institutions to relocate, highlighting the enduring challenges in Bawku's social fabric caused by the protracted conflict between Kusasis and Mamprusis.
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