State-owned Television Kiribati has been shut down by the government.
The President, Anote Tong, says that apart from the broadcaster's serious financial problems, it lacks expertise and knowledge in programming and production.
Mr Tong says TV Kiribati has reached a point where it could no longer meet its operating expenses.
He says government is reviewing the station's financial status and will also consider whether the closure poses a risk to the public.
Kiribati media say the outcome of these considerations will determine the government's final decision on the station's future.
TV Kiribati is the only channel in Kiribati that broadcasts local and foreign programmes to viewers in South Tarawa and Betio.