Business

Sam George pushes for licence suspension as DStv rejects price cut demand

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, is forging ahead with plans to clamp down on MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv.

He describes their subscription rates as “unjustifiable and exploitative,” despite growing calls for a softer, dialogue-based approach.

The move comes in the wake of widespread complaints from consumers who say DStv’s pricing is out of touch with Ghana’s prevailing economic realities. Members of Parliament’s Minority Caucus have since appealed for dialogue, urging the Ministry to resolve the matter without resorting to sanctions.

But in a firm statement shared on social media on Monday, August 4, 2025, the Minister reaffirmed his position, announcing that regulatory measures will commence this week.
“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 posted.

According to the Minister, his outfit has already engaged DStv management in two rounds of discussions—first with the Ghana team on June 27 and later with the company’s headquarters on July 4. During these meetings, the government demanded a 30% reduction in subscription fees and raised red flags about growing instances of piracy on the platform.

MultiChoice, in response, issued a nine-page letter dated July 21, rejecting any downward review of their pricing.

Sharing his frustration, the Minister wrote, “I have always approached this matter with one goal: a fair price for the Ghanaian people. DStv responded with a 9-page letter on 21st July. (If the 1-page letter annoyed you, imagine what was in the 9-pager.)”

Mr. George described the directive to the National Communications Authority (NCA) to consider suspending DStv’s licence as a “last resort,” adding that it is necessary to hold the service provider accountable and protect consumers from what he described as a “recalcitrant monopoly.”

He assured the public that the Ministry will remain transparent and provide Parliament with a full update on the unfolding developments. “I remain accountable to the people of Ghana in my service as Minister,” he added.