According to the statement, signed by Macra’s chairperson Martha Kwataine and director general Charles Nsaliwa, Mulhakho Radio got the licence in December 2011. The radio later applied and was granted a six-month extension of roll out period from August 2012 to January 2013, but still failed to roll out and asked for a further eight-month extension from January to August 2013.
“Macra invited Mulhakho Radio to a meeting to make presentations and justify their application for further extension. At the meeting the radio cited difficulties in sourcing forex for procurement of their broadcasting equipment. Macra, therefore, requested [the radio] to furnish backing documentation in support of their assertions in form of forex bank application letters and any other relevant documentation,”reads part of the statement in part.
“To date Mulhakho Radio has failed to roll out in accordance with the extension agreement or furnish relevant documentation on the lack of from 30th May 2013.”
The resolution was ratified and adopted by Macra’s board members on March 14 2013. – Malawi Democrat