Broadcasting Authority suspends 13 radio stations

The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has revoked the broadcasting licence for Copperbelt Television and suspended licences for 13 radio stations for failure to comply with the conditions of their broadcasting licences.

The radio stations whose licenses have been revoked include, Pan African Radio, Live FM, Ama, FM Comet all based in Lusaka, Jive FM, Mwinilunga Radio among others.

IBA Board Chairman Brigadier General Justin Mutale has told a media briefing that the suspensions are for a period of 14 days failure to which the matter will be escalated.

General Mutale has since reminded broadcasting stations that non-compliance to any of the licensing conditions, including non-payment or late payment of fees is a serious offence.

He says the erring media institutions owe the Authority K272, 900 for the year 2017.

General Mutale says the revocation and suspension of the licenses is in line with the IBA amendment Act number 26 of 2010.

And General Mutale has reminded all broadcasting stations of the need to practice journalism that strives to strike a balance between press freedom and responsibility.

Speaking at the same briefing, IBA Director General Josephine Mapoma expressed disappointment that despite giving the affected stations grace period they failed to pay and continued operating illegally.

Ms. has warned that the Authority will take action against any broadcasting station that has not paid License fees.
QFM