NCA gives MultiChoice Ghana 30 days to respond to suspension notice

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

This regulatory move is being carried out upon the directive of the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George.

The development follows a standoff between Multichoice Ghana and the Minister, who has accused the company, operators of DStv, of imposing unfair and exorbitant subscription fees on Ghanaians.

He reiterated his resolve to take regulatory action against the company, describing the pricing model as exploitative and insensitive to the country’s economic conditions.

In a statement issued on Sunday, August 3, Multichoice Ghana described the Minister’s directive to the NCA as “regrettable,” stating that further reductions in subscription fees were not feasible under current market conditions.

However, the Minister rejected the company’s explanation, arguing that its position fails to reflect the economic hardships currently faced by the average Ghanaian consumer.

In a statement issued on Thursday, August 7, the NCA said the regulatory action is being taken under Section 13 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), citing concerns over Multichoice Ghana’s pricing model, which it described as “inimical to the public interest.”

As required by law, Multichoice Ghana has been given a 30-day window to respond. During this period, the company may submit its views, take remedial action, or file a written statement of objections regarding the planned suspension.

“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 statement said.

The move marks a significant development in the regulation of pay-TV services in Ghana, as the NCA reinforces its mandate to ensure fair and transparent practices in the communications sector.

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

The Minister’s reaffirmation comes amid rising public dissatisfaction over DStv’s pricing model in Ghana — concerns that have prompted calls for intervention from various stakeholders, including the Minority in Parliament.

While the Minority has urged a diplomatic approach, encouraging engagement between the Ministry, MultiChoice Ghana, and the National Communications Authority (NCA), the Minister has insisted that the process of regulatory enforcement will proceed.