The revocation of licenses for radio stations that failed to respond or make any representation after receiving a notice from PURA has been authorized by the Minister of Information, according to Emma Mendy, the Director of Licensing and Enforcement at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA,).
On Thursday, the Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA) conducted a press conference to address apprehensions regarding radio stations that are operating with expired licenses. PURA discovered that five registered radio stations had ceased operations without prior notification to the Authority during a nationwide monitoring exercise in January and February 2024. This violation of the PURA Act and the IC Act Section 235(1)(a) was identified. Paradise FM (Basse Radio Station), Sky FM, Libidorr, Radio 1 FM, and Deggo FM are the stations in question.
PURA stated that a compliance notice was issued on December 22, 2023, prior to the monitoring exercise, encouraging radio stations to renew their licenses. PURA issued a notice of intention to revoke the stations’ licenses as a result of their failure to comply with the notice. By July 10, 2024, the stations were obligated to submit written representations that elucidated the reasons why their licenses should not be revoked.
Emma Mendy, the Director of Licensing and Enforcement, disclosed during the press conference that certain radio stations have responded to their letter. Nevertheless, numerous stations have yet to respond.
Emma Mendy, the Director of Licensing and Enforcement at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), stated during a press conference on Thursday that the Minister of Information has granted approval to revoke the licenses of those who have not submitted any information or made any representations.
Muhammad Ndure, the Legal Licensing and Enforcement Manager, underscored the significance of ensuring that radio stations operate with valid licenses. He emphasized that a genuine license is required before providing services in the regulated sector, and that stakeholders must adhere to regulatory requirements to preserve a vibrant broadcasting sector. He provided a list of radio stations that have not yet responded to their letter and emphasized that they will adhere to the proper process to revoke their licenses.
Deggo FM, Sky FM, Malagen Communication Network, City Limits Radio, Al Fallah Radio, Juneteenth Radio, Nexus FM, Banjul FM, Capital FM, and Janneh Koto FM. Radio stations that have not submitted any written representation or renewal application as of July 10th are listed below. All other licensed radio stations have submitted applications, and their applications will be reviewed in accordance with the results. Decisions regarding the applications will be rendered.