Ghana’s parliamentary Minority has intervened in the escalating dispute over DStv subscription fees, demanding transparency and fair pricing while calling for an end to public confrontations between stakeholders.
The caucus has formally requested that Communications and Digitalisation Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful and representatives of MultiChoice Ghana appear before Parliament’s Information and Communications Committee to justify the cost structure of pay-TV services in the country.
In an official statement, Ranking Member of the Committee Matthew Nyindam acknowledged “valid” public concerns regarding subscription fees perceived as disproportionately high, particularly when compared to neighboring countries.
“Subscription fees must be set fairly and reflect the realities of Ghana’s economy,” the statement emphasized. The Minority endorsed ongoing citizen-led advocacy efforts, noting they had “rightly attracted” ministerial attention, but urged stakeholders to cease the “media war” in favor of diplomatic and legislative solutions.
The Minority’s demands include a parliamentary examination of the basis for DStv’s current pricing structure in Ghana, an assessment of whether the National Communications Authority (NCA) is fulfilling its consumer protection mandate, and the development of a sustainable pricing model that benefits consumers while maintaining investor confidence.
This intervention follows weeks of intense public debate, with numerous consumers alleging MultiChoice charges significantly more in Ghana than in Nigeria or South Africa for comparable packages. While MultiChoice Ghana cites operational costs and tax obligations as justification for its pricing, critics argue the disparity is unjustifiable amid Ghana’s economic challenges.
The anticipated parliamentary engagement aims to clarify regulatory oversight, enhance pricing transparency, and explore potential reforms. “We remain committed to standing with the Ghanaian public in demanding fairness, transparency, and accountability,” the Minority affirmed, positioning Parliament as the forum for resolving the contentious issue.
