The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has stated that MultiChoice has refused to review its prices despite several engagements.

According to him, he has insisted that MultiChoice reduce its prices to reflect the appreciation of the cedi and the current stability of the economy.

He explained that the operators of DStv had previously increased prices due to the cedi’s depreciation and were expected to do the same in reverse following the local currency’s appreciation.

Speaking to Joy FM on August 12, 2025, the minister said, “I had made a request for 30%. If they did not do that, I was going to trigger the suspension. Thirty percent, nothing less. That’s my ask, 30%. And there’s a reason behind it. Some people have said, ‘Oh, why don’t you do 10% or 15%?’ In April this year, MultiChoice increased their prices by 15%. At that time, the cedi had appreciated by about 10% against the dollar.”

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He added, “As of April this year, they did a 15% increase, yet we had stability of the currency, appreciation of the currency, and a drop in inflation rates. The macroeconomic indicators were looking better. So there was absolutely no justification for that 15%. I am reversing that 15% and then demanding a further 15% for Ghanaians.”

Sam George further disclosed that MultiChoice has told him they would not reduce prices “by even one cent.”

He cautioned, “My advice to businesses is, don’t fight your regulator. You can’t fight a regulator and win.”

The minister added that there have been extensive engagements with the South African Minister for ICT, Suleyman Lassie, to speak to MultiChoice.

However, he said the company has taken “a recalcitrant position” because they wrongly believe Ghanaians will turn against him over their English Premier League broadcasts.

Sam George said MultiChoice has been asked to submit specific data detailing the cost breakdown of every bouquet they offer in Ghana, including taxes, compared to six other African countries.

He revealed that MultiChoice requested seven days to provide the information, even though the law stipulates that failure to submit required information to the regulator attracts a fine of GH¢10,000 for each day of delay.

The minister said he waived the fine and granted the extension using his discretionary powers.

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“However, they have 30 days. They’re going to be taken over by Canal+, which I believe should kick in sometime in September. They’ve reached out, and I have made it clear that if they want to come into Ghana and operate on the license of the company they are acquiring, this is our request,” the minister stated.

SSD/MA