MONROVIA, June 18 (LINA) – The Government of Liberia has with immediate effect announced the suspension of all new operating licenses and authorization issues to media operators from January 1 to June 18, 2018.
The government in a release issued by the Ministry of Information in Monrovia on Monday said it is reviewing the regulatory regime due to
technical and administrative anomalies.
It named duplication of frequencies to radio and television operators, and incorrect designations and submissions as some of he irregularities responsible for the revision process which is expected to begin on Wednesday, June 20.
The government averred in the release that the revision process will not affect any media entity which has been in existence prior to January 2018.
The release noted that following the review process, new and appropriate frequencies, including operating authorization, will be issued to media operators by the Ministry of Information and the Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) within the period designated
for the review in keeping with the standard required.
It noted that the government has mandated all sector actors, including the LTA and the Ministry of Information to expeditiously initiate the
exercise so that it does not unfairly affect media operators that are compliant.
The government, according to the release, assures that it values the relationship with the free press and support freedom of speech.
« Media pluralism and new media are crucial in the democratization of any nation, » the release said.
Meanwhile, the government is also calling on other media institutions and owners to continue to carry out their activities unimpeded.
LINA PR/WSG/PTK
