The Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation has slapped MultiChoice-owned DSTV with a statutory fine of GH₵10,000 daily, beginning today Friday, August 15, for failing to submit essential pricing data required under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA).
According to the Minister for the sector, Samuel Nartey George, they had asked DSTV to provide detailed information on bouquet prices, tax components, and comparative pricing from at least six other African markets, data which is critical to discussions on making subscriptions more affordable for Ghanaian customers.
Sam George said that although MultiChoice was granted an extension until Monday, August 11, to provide the requested information, the deadline has passed without compliance.
During a meeting with DSTV executives today, Sam George said, “The regulator informed me that they have not received the requested pricing data from MultiChoice Ghana. Under the Electronic Communications Act, once that deadline is missed, the law requires that the fine begins immediately, and that is exactly what has happened.”
“The law is clear, and we will enforce it. If necessary, we can freeze accounts to protect consumer interests,” the Minister stressed.
Sam George assured that if evidence shows that high taxes are the main cause of high subscription rates from DSTV, he will push for tax relief.
“If not, we expect DSTV to comply with our directive to make subscriptions more affordable,” he added.
The ministry warned that if no agreement on price reduction is reached by September 6, 2025, then DSTV’s operating licence would be suspended.
