By: Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The standoff between Government and MultiChoice Ghana over DStv subscription prices has escalated, following a fiery response from the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, to a statement issued by the pay-TV operator.
Earlier on Friday, MultiChoice clarified that while it would fully participate in the Working Committee established to review pricing concerns, it had “not agreed to a price reduction.” The company stressed that while it seeks an amicable solution, it must also safeguard the viability of the DStv service.
In a swift reaction posted on his Facebook page, the Communication Minister, Samuel Nartey George, accused MultiChoice of showing “disrespect to Ghanaians” and warned that regulatory action, including a shutdown, would proceed if the company refused to discuss price reductions.
“Let me be clear, I have no intention to continue tolerating the disrespect to Ghanaians by DStv. If MultiChoice is not interested as they claim in their last statement, in discussing a reduction in prices as they had indicated to me, we would proceed to effect the shutdown tomorrow as indicated,” the Minister stated.
He explained that MultiChoice had earlier expressed willingness to engage government on pricing concerns, which led to the suspension of enforcement action. However, if the company had shifted its position, he said, there was no basis for further meetings.
“No company is above the law. When MultiChoice is ready to discuss price reduction, they can come to the negotiation table. Until then, there is nothing for us to meet over. The National Communications Authority Ghana would carry out enforcement,” he added.
The Minister reaffirmed government’s stance that Ghana remains open to businesses but stressed that operators must respect national laws and institutions.
The Working Committee, chaired by the Minister, has until September 21, 2025, to recommend a pricing framework, but tensions suggest regulatory enforcement could be triggered sooner if consensus fails.
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