NCA to Shut Down MultiChoice Today Over Refusal to Agree on Price Reductions

The Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has stated that government has no choice but to direct the National Communications Authority (NCA) to shut down MultiChoice Ghana’s DStv service today following the company’s denial of any agreement to reduce subscription fees.

In a Facebook post on Friday, September 5, the Minister emphasized that MultiChoice had earlier signaled its willingness to engage on pricing concerns but had now taken a contrary position.

“If MultiChoice is not interested as they claim in their last statement, in discussing a reduction in prices as they had indicated to me, we would proceed to effect the shutdown tomorrow as indicated. No company is above the law. When MultiChoice is ready to discuss price reduction, they can come to the negotiation table. Until then, there is nothing for us to meet over. The National Communications Authority Ghana would carry out enforcement,” he wrote.

MultiChoice, in its own release titled “MultiChoice Sets the Record Straight on DStv Pricing,” said it remains committed to dialogue but denied any agreement to reduce fees.

“We continue to engage with the Minister in a bid to find an amicable solution that is beneficial for all parties involved but does not jeopardise the viability of the DStv service… However, we wish to clarify that MultiChoice Group has not agreed to a price reduction,” the company said.

Read Also: Sam George Gives DSTV August 7 Deadline to Slash Prices or Face Licence Suspension

The dispute comes after the Minister earlier told the press that MultiChoice had asked for a 30-day window for a joint committee to finalize the percentage of reduction. He argued, however, that the process could be completed in 14 days.

The committee — made up of representatives from the Ministry, the NCA, MultiChoice Ghana, and MultiChoice Africa — was expected to oversee the talks.

With the company now distancing itself from any firm commitment, the Minister said the NCA has been instructed to enforce the shutdown.