Management of Space-FM 87.7 MHz in Tarkwa has explained its absence from the nominations for the Best Radio Station category at the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Assembly Excellence Awards, stating that the station voluntarily chose not to participate.
In a public statement issued on Friday, October 9, 2026, the station said it had taken note of public enquiries and discussions surrounding its absence from the nominations.
Management stressed that Space-FM was neither overlooked nor disqualified from the awards scheme.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Space-FM was neither overlooked nor disqualified. The station made a considered corporate decision not to submit an entry or participate in the awards scheme,” the statement said.
The station explained that its decision was informed by concerns about maintaining editorial independence, particularly because the Municipal Assembly is an important subject of its news coverage and public-interest oversight.
According to management, participating in an awards scheme organised directly by an institution that the station regularly reports on and scrutinises could create a perception that it was seeking recognition from, or becoming aligned with, a public institution it must continue to cover objectively.
The statement, however, clarified that the decision was not an accusation against the organisers, adjudicating panel or any of the nominees.
Space-FM Reaffirms Commitment to Editorial Independence
Space-FM, which describes itself as the municipality’s first commercial radio station, said it had served Tarkwa and surrounding communities for more than 22 years as a source of information, education and entertainment.
Management said the station had maintained professional relationships with successive governments, public institutions, businesses and community organisations while preserving its editorial independence and political neutrality.
It added that the decision should not be interpreted as hostility, political disagreement or a breakdown in relations with the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Assembly.
The station reaffirmed its commitment to covering the Assembly’s programmes, policies and activities fairly, professionally and in the public interest.
Management also congratulated all individuals and institutions nominated for recognition, emphasising that its decision was peculiar to Space-FM and should not be interpreted as questioning the competence, achievements or credibility of any nominee.
Station Open to Future Participation
Despite its decision to stay out of the current awards scheme, Space-FM indicated that it remained supportive of initiatives aimed at promoting media professionalism in the municipality.
The station said it would consider participating in future editions if the awards were administered through an independent professional, academic or civil-society body, with the Municipal Assembly participating as a partner or sponsor.
It also called for continued efforts to promote professional training, capacity building, improved access to public information and programmes that strengthen responsible journalism.
Management said the trust and loyalty of its listeners, advertisers, partners and the communities it serves remained its greatest recognition.
The statement concluded with an appreciation to listeners and other stakeholders who had expressed concern about the station’s absence from the nominations.
Space-FM reaffirmed its commitment to serving the public with credibility, courage, fairness and professionalism.
The statement was issued by the management of Space-FM 87.7 MHz, Tarkwa, on October 9, 2026.
Source: myinfotoday.com/Tarkwa
