The National Communications Authority (NCA) has officially notified Multichoice Ghana Limited of its intent to suspend the company’s authorisation to operate its Subscription Management Service for Satellite Television Broadcasting (Pay TV Direct-to-Home Bouquet).

The regulatory action follows a directive from the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, in response to what he describes as unjustifiable and excessive subscription fees being charged by Multichoice Ghana, operators of DStv.

According to the Minister, the company’s current pricing model is exploitative and insensitive to the prevailing economic hardships faced by Ghanaian consumers. He has vowed to pursue firm regulatory action, citing the need to protect public interest.

In a statement issued on Sunday, August 3, Multichoice Ghana described the Minister’s directive to the NCA as “regrettable,” arguing that the current economic climate makes it impractical to lower subscription rates further.

However, the Minister rejected that explanation, insisting that Multichoice’s position fails to adequately consider the plight of the average Ghanaian household.

In its latest statement issued on Thursday, August 7, the NCA confirmed that the proposed suspension is grounded in Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775). The Authority described the company’s pricing structure as “inimical to the public interest,” adding that regulatory oversight is necessary to ensure fairness and transparency in Ghana’s pay-TV market.

As mandated by law, Multichoice Ghana has been granted 30 days to respond to the notice. Within this period, the company is entitled to:


  • Present its views on the planned suspension


  • Propose remedial actions


  • Submit a written statement of objections

“By this notice, Multichoice Ghana has thirty (30) days within which the company may present its views, or provide remedial action, and submit a written statement of its objections to the suspension of the authorisation,” the NCA stated.

This development signals a notable shift in regulatory enforcement in Ghana’s digital broadcasting sector. It underscores the government’s intent to hold service providers accountable for pricing practices deemed harmful to the public.

Meanwhile, rising dissatisfaction among subscribers over DStv’s pricing has drawn the attention of multiple stakeholders. The Minority in Parliament has called for a diplomatic resolution, urging dialogue between the Ministry, Multichoice Ghana, and the NCA.

Despite such calls, the Minister maintains that the regulatory process will proceed, reaffirming the government’s commitment to consumer protection and sector reform.

Further updates are expected following the conclusion of the 30-day response period.