Ghana Threatens to Shut Down MultiChoice Operations Today Over DStv Price Dispute
Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has issued a final ultimatum to MultiChoice Ghana, vowing to shut down its DStv and GOtv services today, September 6, 2025, if the company fails to engage in negotiations to reduce subscription prices.
In a fiery post on X late Friday night, the minister accused MultiChoice of disrespecting Ghanaians and backtracking on earlier commitments to discuss price cuts.
“Let me be clear, I have no intention to continue tolerating the disrespect to Ghanaians by DStv,” George stated. “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.”
The warning follows a months-long dispute over DStv’s high subscription fees, which consumers and the government have criticized as exorbitant, especially compared to other African markets like Nigeria, where the Premium package costs $29 versus $83 in Ghana. The minister’s push for a 30% price reduction, backed by the cedi’s appreciation and improved economic conditions, led to a September 6 deadline for MultiChoice to comply or face license revocation by the National Communications Authority (NCA).
George claimed MultiChoice initially signaled willingness to negotiate, prompting the government to delay enforcement actions. “DStv indicated their willingness to engage the Ministry on its concerns on pricing and prayed us to stay our enforcement action,” he said. However, MultiChoice’s statement on September 5 denied agreeing to price cuts, asserting ongoing efforts to find an “amicable solution” through a newly formed stakeholder committee.
“No company is above the law,” George emphasized, noting that the NCA would enforce the shutdown if MultiChoice fails to comply. The company has faced a GH¢10,000 daily fine since August 15 for not submitting pricing data, with penalties reportedly reaching GH¢240,000.
Public support for the minister’s stance is strong, with consumers and advocacy groups like the Consumer Protection Agency decrying MultiChoice’s pricing and perceived monopolistic practices. A shutdown would disrupt services for millions of subscribers and could set a precedent for regulatory action against multinational corporations in Ghana.
“Ghana is open for businesses that respect our laws and institutions,” George concluded. “Until then, there is nothing for us to meet over.” As the deadline looms, all eyes are on whether last-minute talks can avert a historic shutdown of one of Ghana’s major entertainment providers.
