NCA Issues 30-Day Ultimatum to MultiChoice Ghana Over Pay-TV Suspension Notice
The National Communications Authority (NCA) has formally notified MultiChoice Ghana Limited, operators of DStv, of its intent to suspend the company’s authorization to operate its Subscription Management Service for Satellite Television Broadcasting (Pay TV Direct-to-Home Bouquet), citing a pricing model deemed “inimical to the public interest.”
The notice, issued on Thursday, August 7, 2025, gives MultiChoice Ghana 30 days to respond with remedial actions, objections, or a written statement to prevent the suspension, as stipulated under Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775).
The directive follows a heated dispute between MultiChoice Ghana and the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, who has accused the company of imposing “exploitative” and “unfair” subscription fees. George, citing the cedi’s 40% appreciation since January 2025 (from GH₵14.7 to GH₵10.3–10.5 against the dollar), demanded a 30% reduction in DStv package prices, arguing that the company’s 15% price hike in April was unjustified amid Ghana’s improving economic conditions. He noted that DStv’s premium bouquet costs $83 in Ghana compared to $29 in Nigeria for similar content, describing the pricing as “plain stealing.”
MultiChoice Ghana, in a statement on August 3, 2025, signed by Managing Director Alex Okyere, called the proposed 30% price cut “not tenable,” citing operational costs and the need to maintain service quality. The company, which has operated in Ghana for over 30 years, warned that enforced reductions could threaten jobs and customer choice, proposing instead to freeze current prices and suspend revenue repatriation to its South African headquarters—an offer George rejected as “illogical.
The NCA’s notice has sparked widespread attention, with posts on X reflecting public support for regulatory action, though some urge dialogue to avoid service disruptions for millions of subscribers. The Minority in Parliament has called for a diplomatic resolution, but George remains firm, emphasizing consumer protection. Legal experts note that any suspension must adhere to due process under the Electronic Communications Act, warning of potential litigation if not handled transparently.
As the 30-day response period unfolds, stakeholders await MultiChoice Ghana’s next move, with the outcome potentially reshaping the pay-TV landscape in Ghana. Further updates are expected by September 6, 2025.
