Media in Benin: HAAC issues formal notice to 8 radio stations for non-compliance with agreements
The High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication (HAAC) is raising its voice. As part of its mission to monitor compliance with media legislation, the regulatory institution issued warnings this Thursday, against eight promoters of sound broadcasting stations, for failure to meet contract obligations.
A la Haute Autorité de l’Audiovisuel et de la Communication HAAC Bénin
Assembled in a plenary session under the 7th mandate, the HAAC adopted two distinct decisions aiming to call the involved actors to order. By Decision N°25-041/HAAC, it instructs MIFON FM to finalize, without delay, the complete installation of its technical infrastructure. In case of non-execution, the instance warns that it could proceed with the withdrawal of the frequency, in accordance with the provisions of article 49 of the organic law N°2022-13 of July 5, 2022, governing the organization and operation of the HAAC.
In a second decision (N°25-042/HAAC), seven other stations are involved in a collective warning. These include Couffo FM, Maroowo FM, Radio Dialogue FM, Aifa FM, As Salam FM, Radio Gbetin, and Nostalgie FM. These press organizations are urged to comply with the obligations stipulated in the conventions signed with the HAAC, under penalty of sanctions that can go up to the immediate suppression of their frequency, without other prior procedure.
In a context where the media landscape in Benin is constantly evolving, these reminders to order are part of the will of the HAAC, presided over by Édouard Loko, to strengthen the professionalization of the sector. The regulatory body wants to emphasize that the freedom of the press comes with demands of responsibility and rigor.
“It’s not about repressing, but about ensuring the credibility and sustainability of the media in the interest of the general public,” a source close to the institution stated.
By adopting this posture, the HAAC reaffirms its commitment to guarantee a transparent media space, respectful of ethics and in compliance with the laws in effect in the Republic of Benin.