Sam George rejects DSTV’s fee proposal as “illogical”
The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovation, Mr. Samuel Nartey George, has rejected MultiChoice Ghana’s recent proposal regarding the reduction of DStv subscription fees, calling it “illogical.”
MultiChoice, the operator of DStv in Ghana, suggested maintaining the current subscription rates but proposed halting the repatriation of revenue to its parent company. This proposal came after Mr. George called for a reduction in subscription fees and directed the National Communications Authority (NCA) to suspend DStv’s broadcasting licence.
In a statement issued on Sunday, August 3, MultiChoice Managing Director Alex Okyere explained that lowering fees was not a feasible option. The company expressed disappointment over the Minister’s directive and emphasised its commitment to engage with the government constructively. As part of its proposal, MultiChoice offered to retain existing prices while stopping the flow of revenue to its headquarters.
However, Mr. George quickly dismissed the offer. In a Facebook post on Sunday, he expressed his frustration.
“They proposed that I allow them to maintain the collection of the exorbitant bouquet prices as they stand, but order them not to send the revenue to their headquarters. In all honesty, that offer lacks any logic in my estimation. The essence of my action is to see Ghanaians pay a fair price for the services offered. How does this proposal solve the real issue?” he stated.
The Minister also voiced his dissatisfaction with what he called years of exploitation by MultiChoice, reiterating his commitment to securing pricing reforms.
“I remain open to ‘constructive engagements’ that are centred on PRICE REDUCTION. Anything else is tangential and of no consequence,” he said.
The ongoing disagreement between the Ministry and MultiChoice has sparked public debate about the affordability of pay-TV services in Ghana.
Read the full statement by Sam George below:
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