I Am Not Behind Closure Of 51 Radio Stations - Ursula Owusu-Ekuful

The Minister-Designate for Communication, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful has denied targeting and closing down some radio stations in the country.

She made the comment today, 15th February 2021, when she appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament for vetting.

Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful stated that the National Communication Authority (NCA ) after conducting an audit on radio stations operating in the country, closed down 51 FM stations that had breached the rules of the NCA.

Out of the 51 radio stations closed down, she said 41 have submitted fresh applications for authorization, out of which the NCA has processed and granted authorization to 28 of the closed down stations which reapplied.

She said the remaining 13 FM stations which reapplied for authorization will be processed by the end of March 2021.

Responding to questions by the MP for North Tongu, Hon Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and the Minority Leader, Hon Haruna Iddrisu about the perception that she (Ursula Owusu-Ekuful) is arrogant and temperamental, she described herself as a fair but firm person and not arrogant.

Responding to another question about some derogatory comments she made about the Minority caucus when the minority walked out of Parliament, Hon Ursula Owusu-Ekuful said her comments were taken out of context and perceived to be an insult to the Minority even though she didn't intend to insult them.

She, therefore, apologized to the Minority caucus before the Appointment Committee if they got offended by the said comments she made about them.