MultiChoice Ghana has expressed concern over recent public remarks made by the Minister of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, regarding the pricing of DStv subscription packages in the country.
The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, issued a stern ultimatum to DSTV, warning that the broadcaster’s licence will be suspended by Wednesday, August 7, should it fail to reduce its subscription prices in Ghana in line with regulatory expectations.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Friday, August 1, the Minister revealed that he had formally written to the National Communications Authority (NCA), instructing it to initiate the suspension process if DSTV continues to disregard calls to revise its pricing.
In a statement issued on Sunday, August 3, MultiChoice described the Minister’s comments as regrettable, particularly given the company’s ongoing efforts to engage in open and constructive dialogue with the Minister and the National Communications Authority (NCA) over the matter.
“It is regrettable that the Honourable Minister has taken this stance, notwithstanding our ongoing endeavours to engage with him candidly and in good faith,” the company stated.
MultiChoice indicated that it had submitted a formal proposal to both the Minister and the NCA, suggesting an alternative avenue for further engagement aimed at resolving the issue amicably.
With over 30 years of operation in Ghana, MultiChoice reaffirmed its commitment to its Ghanaian workforce, including employees, dealers, agents, retailers, and installers.
The company acknowledged the potential economic impact an unresolved standoff could have on these stakeholders and assured all parties of its intention to pursue resolution.
“We are mindful of the dire implications that an impasse may have on you and your livelihoods, and we assure you that we are committed to working together with the Honourable Minister and the NCA to resolve this matter,” the statement added.
The company defended its current subscription pricing model, noting that it has made every effort to keep fees as low as possible, even in the face of a highly competitive market and significant macro-economic pressures.
While welcoming the recent appreciation of the Ghanaian Cedi, MultiChoice rejected the suggestion that it had dismissed the currency’s rise as a “fluke”, an accusation implied in earlier commentary.
However, the broadcaster maintained that the type of fee reduction being proposed by the Minister is not “tenable” under current conditions, given the need to sustain service quality and customer choice.
“MultiChoice values its subscribers and endeavours at all times to keep DStv subscription fees as low as possible… without compromising on customer choice and the quality of the services we offer,” the company noted.
The company further reiterated its readiness to continue engaging constructively with the Ministry and relevant authorities.
It also emphasised its commitment to full compliance with Ghanaian laws and regulations.
“MultiChoice remains committed to constructive engagement with the Honourable Minister and to complying with all applicable laws and regulations in Ghana and trusts that the authorities will do likewise,” the statement concluded.
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DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
