TV licence: GBC ordered not to prosecute defaulters

The Governing Board of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, (GBC) has instructed the Management of Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) not to pursue any activity, or set of processes, leading to the prosecution of any individual for non-payment of the Television Licence Fee.

The order follows widespread condemnation over possible prosecution of TV licence defaulters.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the governing board of GBC assured the public not to entertain any fear of any such possible prosecutions.

Below is the full statement

PRESS RELEASE

GBC GOVERNING BOARD ON TELEVISION LICENCE FEE

At an emergency meeting of the Governing Board of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation on the 10th of January 2018, the Board was apprised of the challenges that had come in the wake of the implementation of the Television Licence Fee.

The Board also noted the outcry, anxieties and apprehensions expressed by the public with respect to possible prosecution for non-payment.

The Board, following an evaluation of the situation, has instructed the Management of Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) not to pursue any activity, or set of processes, leading to the prosecution of any individual for non-payment of the Television Licence Fee.

The Governing Board is assuring the public not to entertain any fear of any such possible prosecutions.

With respect to the future of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, the Board recommends that the National Media Commission (NMC) drives the processes of engaging critical stakeholders, to resolve the status of GBC, and find a more enduring funding module, that would enable it to discharge its constitutional mandate.

Signed:

REV. PROF. EMMANUEL ADOW OBENG (PhD)

CHAIRMAN, GBC GOVERNING BOARD