TIG Post

Tag: National media Commission

  • NMC warns media outlets against offensive broadcasting amid surge in complaints

    NMC warns media outlets against offensive broadcasting amid surge in complaints

    The National Media Commission (NMC) has adopted a stringent approach toward inappropriate broadcasting, urging media outlets across Ghana to be more mindful of their content to avoid potential penalties.

    During a regulatory meeting on Thursday, October 31, NMC Chairman Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo emphasized the importance of responsible programming and indicated the commission’s willingness to impose sanctions on those violating broadcasting guidelines.

    A recent report from the NMC indicated that nearly 9,000 complaints have been filed this year, covering a wide array of concerns, including sexually explicit material and accusations of money laundering and loan fraud involving over 40 media outlets.

    Oyerepa TV, which was explicitly mentioned for broadcasting unsuitable content, expressed dissatisfaction over being singled out in the report.

    Despite this, the NMC maintained its position, asserting that Oyerepa TV’s programming presented a “significant harm” and suggested that it may forward the case to the National Communications Authority (NCA) for possible license revocation.

    The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) also expressed its views, criticizing the NCA for its management of the digital migration process and questioning its enforcement of broadcasting regulations.

    In reply, the NCA reassured the public of its commitment to ongoing monitoring and regulation.

  • Media Commission lists 15 TV stations showing p0rn0, money rituals; issues warning

    Media Commission lists 15 TV stations showing p0rn0, money rituals; issues warning

    The National Media Commission (NMC) has issued a cautionary notice to 15 television stations in Ghana, warning them against airing content deemed inappropriate by the standards of media ethics, Ghanaian culture, traditions, and norms. The warning comes in response to reports received from the public about the objectionable content being broadcasted by these stations.

    The identified television stations include Asomafo TV, Adwenpa TV, Eagle TV, Best TV, Energy TV, Diamond TV, X TV, Asomdwie TV, Funny TV, Advice TV, Big TV, Passion TV, Nkabom TV, Seekers TV, and Elephant TV.

    In an official statement dated November 16, 2023, and signed by the Executive Secretary, George Sarpong, the NMC expressed concern over the content aired by these stations, which reportedly includes material related to rituals, fake lotteries, pornography, and other offensive content.

    The NMC highlighted that these contents are considered unacceptable by the standards of media ethics and are inconsistent with Ghanaian cultural values and norms. The Commission stressed the importance of upholding high standards in broadcasting to ensure responsible and culturally sensitive content.

    The statement warned the identified TV stations to cease and desist from broadcasting such content immediately, emphasizing that failure to comply would result in severe consequences. The NMC is committed to maintaining the integrity of the media landscape and safeguarding the cultural values of the nation.

    The caution comes as part of a joint monitoring initiative between the National Media Commission and the National Communications Authority, launched on October 31, 2023. This collaborative effort aims to address deficits in broadcast content by involving citizens in the regulatory process. The public is encouraged to report concerns via the toll-free number 0800-419-666, allowing for a more participatory and democratic approach to monitoring broadcasting standards.

    The NMC’s statement also provided a summary of citizen complaints, revealing that the public expressed concerns about various incidents, including money doubling, money rituals, fake lotteries, occultic practices, and pornography. The Commission assured the public that it would continue to assess and address complaints to maintain a high standard of broadcasting in Ghana. Additionally, the Commission disclosed ongoing regulatory interventions in response to specific broadcasts that have implications for national cohesion. The public will be informed of decisions regarding these matters in due course.

  • Media Commission criticizes UTV intrusion by purported NPP men

    Media Commission criticizes UTV intrusion by purported NPP men

    The National Media Commission strongly condemns the invasion of United Television‘s premises and studios by individuals purportedly affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the evening of Saturday, October 7, 2023.

    In a statement released on Sunday, October 8, the Commission stated that it is working closely with the Ghana Police Service to prevent the situation from escalating into violence.

    “The Commission is concerned about the increasing use of violence as the preferred method for addressing grievances against the media and journalists. Perpetrators of such crimes must realise that violence does not produce better journalism,” the statement signed by the NMC Executive Secretary George Sarpong said.

    It further emphasized the importance of upholding journalistic integrity and condemned the resort to violence of any kind against the media.

    “Our Constitution provides avenues for individuals feeling aggrieved by media coverage to seek redress through the complaint settlement mechanism of the National Media Commission,” the statement pointed out.

    The NMC however highlighted the importance of fostering a peaceful environment for journalism, especially with the 2024 general elections taking place soon.

    “As we enter the electioneering process, it is crucial for political actors and all Ghanaians to understand that the Ghana we envision will not be built on the foundation of violent attacks on journalists,” the NMC emphasized.

    Background

    In a shocking turn of events, alleged thugs affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) stormed the studios of UTV on Saturday, October 7, 2023, abruptly halting the live broadcast of United Showbiz.

    Around seven minutes into the livestreamed show, voices of unrest could be heard in the background while host MzGee was introducing the program. The host’s visible confusion was followed by an extended production break before the program was eventually taken off the air.

    Numerous reports that emerged following the abrupt interruption suggest that the show was disrupted by a group of men who entered the studios with hostile intentions.

    These reports indicate that the agitated individuals had entered the studio with the apparent intention of confronting Kwame Asare Obeng, also known as A Plus, who is a regular panel member on the show.

    Subsequent videos shared on social media show a chaotic scene within the UTV studio, with several men calling out for A Plus.

    “We are waiting for A Plus today… A Plus has to explain to us why he tore our paper from the NPP party. We are here, we are waiting for A Plus. We are protecting our party property,” one of the men is heard shouting in the studio.

    In the meantime, the Ghana Police Service has taken into custody approximately 16 individuals who were involved in the invasion of UTV’s studios. Investigations into the regrettable incident have now begun.

  • Gyake Quason calls for ban on money rituals advertisements

    Gyake Quason calls for ban on money rituals advertisements

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, has urged the National Communications Authority (NCA) and the National Media Commission (NMC) to prohibit all forms of advertising related to money rituals in the media.

    He expressed concern over the negative influence of such advertisements, particularly those broadcasted on television, which entice individuals with the promise of instant wealth and contribute to an increase in criminal activities among the youth.

    The MP’s plea comes in response to a series of disturbing incidents, including the recent murders of elderly women in Assin North, allegedly for ritualistic purposes.

    The areas most affected by these crimes are Assin Dansame, Bereku, and Praso.

    In an interview with the media, Mr. Gyakye Quayson attributed the situation to the prevalence of money ritual and spiritual purpose advertisements on television.

    He emphasized that these advertisements have exacerbated feelings of insecurity among the local population, causing them to fear for their safety and hindering their daily routines.

    Mr. Quayson highlighted the vulnerability of unemployed youth who are easily enticed by the allure of “get rich quick” schemes showcased in these unregulated advertisements.

    He warned that if this alarming trend is not addressed promptly, it could have dire consequences for the younger generation, potentially leading to their moral degradation.

    The MP called upon the Police Administration to strengthen security measures in the affected areas to alleviate the prevailing sense of insecurity.

    He criticized the inadequate number of police personnel and the lack of essential resources, particularly in the Assin North District.

    To address the underlying issues, Mr. Quayson announced his commitment to implementing employable skills training programs.

    These initiatives aim to empower the local population, especially vulnerable women, with valuable skills such as masonry, carpentry, tailoring, steel bending, electrical work, and plumbing.

    He stressed that providing opportunities for skill development is crucial for promoting economic growth and reducing poverty within rural communities.

    In conclusion, Mr. Quayson encouraged individuals to prioritize their personal safety and security by adopting precautionary measures.

    He emphasized the importance of proactive actions to prevent crime and safeguard both lives and property.

  • NMC urges media outlets to consult stakeholders and audience on professional standards

    NMC urges media outlets to consult stakeholders and audience on professional standards

    The National Media Commission (NMC) has advised media outlets to engage their stakeholders and audience when they face issues of professional standards.

    According to the Commission, this would help to create an environment that promotes peaceful coexistence. 

    The advice came after the commission resolved two complaints that were brought to its attention.

    The complaints were between the Avenor Traditional Council and Shine FM in Akatsi, and between Alidu Seidu and Yussif Abdul Ganiyu and Zuria FM 88.7 in Kumasi. 

    In a statement signed by the NMC’s Deputy Executive Secretary, Alexander Bannerman, the commission said that in both cases, the parties agreed to settle their differences amicably and to work together for the development of their communities.

    “The parties expressed their commitment to peace and pledged to use the radio stations in the communities to enhance their co-existence.The parties said that unity was a good step to repair their strained relationships and to send a signal that they are together to build peace,” the statement said.

    The commission commended the parties for their exemplary display of magnanimity and leadership qualities within the communities in which they live.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • NMC calls for regulations that will check fake news on social media

    NMC calls for regulations that will check fake news on social media

    Ghana’s National Media Commission (NMC) is concerned about the surge in misinformation in the country, following the emergence of social media. 

    The Commission thus wants stricter legislation instituted to check the rise of fake news due to social media.  

    Arguably, social media comes with a lot of benefits, including the fact that it allows for easy sharing and access to information. Nonetheless, it also comes with its own disadvantages which include dissemination of unverified and sometimes, false information. 

    With this, the NMC is concerned that the tool may undermine Freedom of expression. 

    Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr. George Sarpong, speaking at a public forum on Misinformation, Peace, and Democratic Consolidation in Ghana, in Accra on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, emphasised the need to protect the right to freedom of expression, without eroding the peace and security and democracy of the country. 

    He contended that the current spate of disinformation undermined the entire communications experience as well as the truth and the integrity of public discourse. 

    “The right to free expression is inalienable. It is something that we fought for, and we need to protect it. It is the foundation of all freedoms, so we need to protect it at all costs,” he said. 

    Stressing the need for Freedom of Expression to be “protected at all cost” he noted that it was prudent to keep harmful and unproductive content that may undermine the right to free expression under check. 

    “We need to look for methods that are effective, and constitutional. And that is the balancer we are calling for,” he said. 

    Additionally, he said the “global trend now is towards legislation. And we think that it is the way to go, but whatever law we put together must be democratic and consistent with the requirements of our Constitution.” 

  • Asiedu Nketiah must resign from parliamentary service board – NMC chairman suggests

    The Chairman of the National Media Commission of Ghana (NMC), Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, has said that the newly elected National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, can no longer serve on the Parliamentary Service Board.

    Speaking at an event in Accra, Boadu Ayeboafo, explained that Asiedu Nketiah can no longer serve on the Parliamentary Service Board because the Constitution of Ghana indicates that members of such boards should be apolitical.

    He also suggested that Asiedu Nketiah, as the leader of the NDC, may not give objective advice to the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin.

    “There is this concern that once Mr. Asiedu Nketiah is now the chairman of the NDC, he should not be part of the advisory group to the speaker and serve on the board.

    “Because I know that Mr. Peter Ala Adjetey was a member of the National Media Commission, and because of him, the Constitution was amended to say that anybody who holds political office should not be a member of the National Media Commission.

    “So, if somebody holding political office cannot be a member of the commission. How can somebody leading a political party advise the speaker, who is supposed to demonstrate objectivity and neutrality in the highest sense?” He questioned.

    Johnson Asiedu Nketiah won the party’s chairmanship race at the National Delegates Congress held at the Accra Sports Stadium last Saturday.

    Asiedu Nketia received 5574 votes, with Ofosu Ampofo receiving 2892 votes, Samuel Yaw Adusei receiving 52 votes, and Nii Armah Ashietey receiving 38 votes.

  • Bawku Conflict: National Media Commission cautions against “weaponisation” of the media

    The National Media Commission (NMC) has expressed concerns over the “increasing weaponization of the media in the Bawku conflict. “

    It noted an escalation in incidences of hate speech, disinformation and incitement on radio of “a scale and scope”that posed “a clear and present danger to the Bawku community” and cautioned radio stations in the enclave to be circumspect.

    A press release issued by Mr George Sarpong, Executive Secretary, NMC, said some of the cases were “closely reminiscent of the egregious misbehavior of Radio Television Libre des Mille Collines (RTLM) in the Rwandan genocide.”

    It said the collective search for peace must be anchored on a proper balance between the right of radio stations to broadcast and the legitimate need of society to protect public order as envisaged under articles 162,163 and 164 of the Constitution (1992).

    The Commission said, “drastic consequences attend on culpability,” and called on owners of radio stations in Bawku to adopt stronger gatekeeping measures to ensure that persons with interests in the conflict did not hijack radio stations to foment trouble.

    “ Owners must be careful who they recruit as programme hosts and, which persons are invited as guests on discussion programmes. Owners must remember that they bear ultimate responsibility for whatever happens on their networks.”

    It gave all owners of radio stations in the Bawku area two weeks to submit to the Commission clear measures they had put in place to ensure professionalism.

    The Commission also advised media houses outside Bawku to be very circumspect in their coverage of the conflict and reminded media practitioners about the prosecution of journalists at the International Criminal Court and asked them to be guided by that.

    “Ultimately, it is important for stakeholders to understand that at the core of the tension between free expression and public safety is the need to seek the public good,” the Commission said.

    It said the Media Foundation for West Africa and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters’ Association had offered to assist any broadcaster in Bawku who may require assistance to review gatekeeping and professional systems and asked radio stations there to take advantage of the offer.

    Source: GNA

  • Information Ministry calls on stakeholders to support NMC with additional funding

    The Ministry of information has called on relevant stakeholders to support the National Media Commission (NMC) with funding so that it can adequately regulate the interests of journalists in the country.

    According to the ministry, the commission lacks funding to enable it carry out its regulatory role as it should hence the call for support to enable NMC give more protection to the media.

    Addressing the media on the sidelines of a forum organised by the Media Foundation for West Africa on Media professionalism and safety of journalists in Ghana, the Deputy Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar asked all stakeholders to commit to supporting the cause.

    “We are willing to offer some level of support to the office and keep it running, but I would like to use this opportunity to reach out to stakeholders in the country and outside Ghana who have the capacity to assist the NMC with funding to run the office [to help] because perhaps if they had more resources, they would be more inquisitorial in their approach,” she said.

    She further urged journalists to speak up when their security is being threatened in the course of their duties.

    According to her, although the Commission was put in place as part of efforts by the government to protect journalists in the country, journalists fail to report cases of violations to the commission for legal actions to be taken against culprits.

    “For the past one year, we have been able to set up an office for the coordinated mechanism on the safety of journalists. As you heard from the National Media Commission, journalists do not even come there to find out processes of what is happening there so that in line of their duty, when there is such violation, they will go there for redress,” she said.

    The forum was attended by relevant stakeholders such as the Ghana Journalists Association, Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association, Ghana Institute of Journalism, among others.

    Source: Citinews