50 radio, TV stations closed in Madagascar

JOHANNESBURG - The government of Madagascar has shut down 50 radio and television stations for operating illegally, a minister said.

Out of the 300 radio stations and 25 television stations officially recognised by the communication ministry, 50 were operating illegally, Communication Minister Felix Malazarivo was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

The minister said the stations had started operations without completing the necessary procedures for a permit.

Some others continued to broadcast long after their three-month trial period was over, he said.