Homeboyz Radio fined Sh1m, breakfast show suspended for six months

Communication Authority (CA) has imposed a Sh1 million fine on Homeboyz Radio affiliated to Radio Africa Group over violation of programming requirements.

 CA yesterday ordered the station to suspend the breakfast show for six months. According to the authority’s Director General Mercy Wanjau, the action is derived from derogatory comments against women during the Homeboyz Breakfast show.

“The comments were in violation of the provisions of the law and the programming code in respect to the requirement for broadcasters to air decent and family oriented programming during the watershed period,” said Ms Wanjau.

Repeat violation

 She said in light of the gravity of the foregoing breaches and given that this is a repeat violation, CA has levied a penalty of Sh1 million on Homeboyz Radio.

“We have also imposed a six-month suspension of the offending show until the station demonstrates compliance with all statutory and regulatory requirements,” said Ms Wanjau.

 The CA has directed that the staff of the station undergo training and sensitisation on gender issues and should be certified by the National Gender and Equality Commission and evidence of compliance filed with the authority.

 Yesterday, Homeboyz Radio and its parent company, Radio Africa, terminated the services of Shaffie Weru, Joseph Munoru (DJ Mfalme) and Neville Muysa with immediate effect. 

 Sacking came two days after they were suspended for two weeks in relation to comments they made that appeared to victim shame and justify sexual assault against women.

 Homeboyz Radio General Manager Somoina Kimonjino, said investigations had determined that their conduct constitutes gross misconduct and an egregious breach of the company’s editorial policies.