Sam George to DStv: Slash Fees by 7 August or Face Suspension

The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, has issued a stern ultimatum to pay-TV giant MultiChoice (DStv), demanding a reduction in its subscription fees by 7 August or risk having its broadcasting licence suspended.

Speaking at the government’s ongoing Accountability Series held at the Jubilee House today, the minister expressed concern over what he described as unjustifiable and rising costs for DStv services in Ghana.

According to Sam George, the Ministry is committed to protecting Ghanaian consumers from what he called “exploitative pricing practices” by foreign service providers.

“We are giving MultiChoice up to the 7th of August to take immediate steps to reduce their subscription fees. Failure to do so will result in the suspension of their broadcasting licence,” he warned.

The Minister’s comments come amid growing public frustration over the high cost of DStv packages, especially in the face of economic hardship and currency depreciation. He criticised the company for not aligning its pricing with local market realities.

“It is unacceptable for Ghanaians to pay more for fewer services while our counterparts in other countries enjoy better value. We will not allow this to continue,” he added.

Sam George said government was working with the National Communications Authority (NCA) to ensure compliance and would not hesitate to apply sanctions where necessary.

MultiChoice has yet to officially respond to the directive.

The move signals a possible regulatory crackdown on digital service providers seen to be taking advantage of consumers, and reflects a broader effort by government to increase accountability and fairness within Ghana’s digital and broadcasting space.

The Minister concluded by reiterating government’s readiness to protect consumer rights and ensure transparency in service delivery across the telecoms and broadcasting industries.