The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has confirmed that regulatory action against MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv, will proceed as scheduled on August 7.
This development follows widespread public outcry over what many consider to be exorbitant and unfair subscription fees charged by the satellite television provider. The Minister, responding to these concerns, has vowed to enforce measures under existing laws to protect consumers.
Although the Minority in Parliament has called for dialogue, urging the Ministry, MultiChoice Ghana, and the National Communications Authority (NCA) to seek an amicable resolution, Sam George has maintained that enforcement actions are both necessary and imminent.
In a statement issued on Sunday, August 3, MultiChoice Ghana described the Minister’s directive—asking the NCA to suspend the company’s broadcasting licence—as “regrettable,” stating that current market conditions do not support a further reduction in subscription fees.
However, in a Facebook post on Monday, August 4, the Minister firmly rejected that position, labeling it disconnected from the economic realities faced by ordinary Ghanaians.
“On the 7th of August, the Regulator would initiate action in line with the terms of the license authorisation and the Electronic Communications Act, Act 775. We would act within the law and in the interest of the Ghanaian people. The RESET agenda demands this action for sanity to prevail,” he wrote.
Sam George emphasized that the Ministry has made several efforts to engage MultiChoice, including meetings with both the local and headquarters management teams. According to him, concerns over pricing and piracy on DStv’s platform were clearly communicated.
“I met the Ghanaian management of DStv on June 27, and again with their head office team on July 4, where we requested a 30% fee reduction and urged them to address ongoing piracy concerns,” he noted.
He added that despite receiving a detailed nine-page response from the company on July 21, MultiChoice failed to adequately address the Ministry’s concerns, prompting the current course of action.
Describing the move as a “last resort,” Sam George said the regulatory decision aims to curb monopolistic practices and ensure that subscription fees are aligned with Ghana’s prevailing economic situation.
He further pledged to update Parliament’s Communications Committee after the regulatory measures have been carried out.
“I remain accountable to the people of Ghana in my service as Minister. The Ministry will provide a full update to the Parliamentary Committee once we conclude the regulatory actions on August 7,” he assured.
The Minister reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, fairness, and national interest in handling the issue, underscoring that all decisions would be guided by law.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
