Closure of Radio Gold and Radio XYZ: An attempt to gag freedom of expression?

Since Radio Gols and Radio XYZ were shut down, many political organizations and politicians have read meaning into the action. Below is the view of The Caucus for Democratic Governance, Ghana (CDG-Gh) on the subject matter.

The Caucus for Democratic Governance, Ghana (CDG-Gh), observed with dismay the closure of Radio Gold and Radio XYZ.  The harmless issue of authorization affects many Radio stations. Why were these two stations picked up for the closure? Is it an attempt to gag these so-called pro-opposition radios?

Reports confirm that officials of the NCA stormed the premises of Radio Gold and Radio XYZ with armed security personnel and ordered their immediate closure on Thursday,8th May 2019 asking them to reapply for fresh licences.

The question is where is the freedom of expression, which is guaranteed by Democratic governance? Is it likely that the Government through the NCA seeks to silence the voices of the opposition and the voiceless? Is the closure meant to sweep the dirty politics and irresponsible governance under the carpet?

The bloody Ayawaso bye-election, the uncontrolled vigilantism, the training of militia in the Castle (former seat of Government), the high levels of multiple corruption among government appointees including high-level players in the Jubilee House is through this action calculated to die off.  The government-friendly media can comfortably polish the dirty image of the Government while others are closed down. This is an irony of deceit which is bound to backfire.

The relevant provisions in the Constitution that have informed the fight against Executive control of media practice in Ghana, speaks a different language. Article 162 (3) of the Constitution, emphasises that there shall be no impediment to the establishment of private press or media. Besides, there shall be no law requiring any person to obtain a licence.

CDG-GH will advise the Government to thread with caution. According to Martin Luther King Jr, If peace means keeping our mouth shut, in the midst of injustice and evil, then we do not want it.

Signed:

Dr E.K.Hayford