Communication Minister, Samuel Nartey George, has strongly refuted accusations of political witch-hunting following the revocation of over 60 FM broadcasting licences.

Some of the stations, including Wontumi Radio and Asaase Radio, stations perceived to be aligned with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

Speaking in Parliament on Thursday, 12 June, the Minister stressed that the move was a regulatory exercise rooted in legal principles rather than partisan motivation.

“Our goal is not punishment but accountability, order and stewardship of critical resources,” Mr Nartey George asserted.

“This is not routine housekeeping; this is a declaration against impunity and abuse. The airwaves do not belong to the powerful and connected; they belong to the public, and we are bound to govern them transparently and effectively.”

He further maintained that the decision was in line with the government's mandate to enforce broadcasting standards and protect public interest.

While acknowledging the concerns raised by sections of the public and media freedom advocates, the Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering support for freedom of expression.

“Our fight is not against free speech; it is against lawlessness, asset misappropriation and regulatory defiance,” he said.

“I remain committed to reclaiming what rightfully belongs to the Ghanaian people.” He emphasised that broadcasters must meet their obligations to continue operating.

To ensure fairness and promote compliance, Mr Nartey George revealed that President John Dramani Mahama had intervened by directing the Ministry and the National Communications Authority (NCA) to provide a grace period.

“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,” the Minister stated.

“In line with the directive from the President, the Ministry has granted a further 30 days’ grace period to all the faulting entities.”

The revocations have sparked considerable public debate, with critics questioning the timing and transparency of the decision.

Nevertheless, Mr Nartey George insisted that the action forms part of a wider effort to sanitise the broadcasting environment. “This process is about upholding the rule of law,” he concluded.

“We are taking deliberate steps to ensure that Ghana’s airwaves serve the public interest, not private entitlement.”