Gov’t Gives MultiChoice September 6 Deadline to Cut DStv Charges

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel George, has directed MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv, to reduce its subscription charges by September 6 or risk losing its license to operate in the country.

Speaking at the Digital Africa Summit in Accra, the minister said the directive was in line with the government’s commitment to ensuring fair pricing for Ghanaian consumers, given recent improvements in the economy.

“They have up to the 6th of September. If by that time there is no resolution, we will shut down the operations of MultiChoice. No company, no corporate entity is more powerful than the collective interest of the Ghanaian people,” he stated.

Mr. George revealed that the government will hold a final meeting with MultiChoice tomorrow to resolve the matter.

He disclosed that the company has repeatedly failed to comply with directives from the National Communications Authority (NCA) to submit its pricing data as required under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA).

“Fifteen or sixteen days ago, I met with MultiChoice and imposed a GH¢10,000 daily fine on them. So now, they owe us between GH¢150,000 and GH¢170,000. The NCA will collect the money,” he added.

According to the minister, attempts to get the company to reduce its subscription fees by 30 percent have so far been unsuccessful.

“I have engaged them and asked them to do a 30 percent reduction in line with improved economic conditions in the country, but they have failed to comply,” Mr. George stressed.