LOC warns of illegal broadcast of Ghana 2008

Accra, Jan. 15, GNA - The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the Ghana 2008 Africa Cup of Nations has emphasized that it will not tolerate any radio or television company that will attempt to trifle with the production rights of the tournament.

It further warned advertisers and sponsors that allow themselves to be wooed into such illegal plans that they will be equally guilty of the contravention of the fundamental laws protecting copyright." Magnus Rex Danquah, Chief Operating Officer of the LOC in a press release copied to the GNA Sports emphasized that it constitutes an offence for any organisation to broadcast the 26th MTN Ghana 2008 tournament without proper authorization from the LOC, who are the local owners of the event.

"The LOC is very much aware, for instance, of the intent of certain radio stations to use clandestine means, such as relaying their broadcast through mobile phones and using other unorthodox ways to give commentary and to publicize the events of the tournament."

"Some agencies have even gone further to solicit for sponsorship and advertising partners on behalf of radio stations, not known to the LOC, to aid their illicit schemes," the statement added.

Rex Danquah therefore warned corporate bodies, organizations and individuals to "be wary of which advertising agencies or media establishments they deal with in order not to be eventually identified with the wrongdoers in issues that may involve them or their messages in a manner that will contribute to disaffection or lead to law suits." He said the LOC has continually expressed its readiness for collaboration with genuine partners who have the intention of forging the appropriate and mutually beneficial linkages to lead to the success of the tournament and also serve as a worthwhile legacy.

The statement said the LOC has therefore opened its offices to all interested persons and businesses to contact its Secretariat about the modalities for the broadcast and identification with the tournament.