NCA's 'unconstitutional and illegal' actions threat to media freedom – Kwesi Pratt

The Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has called for the review of the regulations of the National Communications Authority (NCA).
According to him, the regulations being used by the authority to close down radio stations are ‘illegal and unconstitutional’ and ought to be looked as their actions are against the growth of media freedom in Ghana.
Speaking to Kaakyire Ofori Ayim on Atinka FM’s AM Drive, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, explained that Chapter 12 Article 162 (3) of the 1992 constitution sates that there shall be no impediments to the establishment of private press or media; and in particular, there shall be no law requiring any person to obtain a license as a prerequisite to the establishment or operation of a newspaper, journal or other media for mass communication or information.
The astute Journalist stated that going by this article of the constitution, the formation of the NCA in its self is illegal hence its regulations must be reviewed.
“The NCA’s regulations are draconian and against media freedom in Ghana, rather than discussing the merits of shutting down Radio gold and XYZ, the regulations of the NCA must be looked at critically. They are unconstitutional and illegal.”, he added.
Kwesi Pratt accused the NCA of giving frequencies to foreigners free of charge and preventing Ghanaian media owners who are ready to even pay for these same frequencies.
The veteran Journalist said this while commenting on the closure of two radio stations in Accra, Radio Gold and XYZ by the NCA.
According to the NCA, these stations were operating without valid authorizations as determined by the 2017 FM Broadcasting Audit hence its closure.
Addressing Journalists at the Ministry of Information Thursday evening, Director General for NCA, Joe Anokye explained that the shutdown of these two stations was the first phase of the ongoing exercise by the NCA and not a deliberate attempt by his outfit. “The second phase will commence tomorrow”, he said.
According to him, the licenses of these two stations expired in 2000 and 2016 respectively.
 
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com | Vivian Adu Boatemaa

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