The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations under the leadership of Samuel Nartey George has begun fining MultiChoice Ghana (DSTV) GHC 10,000 per day for failing to provide detailed subscription pricing data requested under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA). The penalty took effect on 15 August 2025.
Samuel Nartey George, said the South African-owned pay-TV operator missed an extended deadline of 11 August 2025 to submit the data, which includes a breakdown of bouquet prices, tax components, and comparative rates from at least six other African countries.
The government has warned DSTV that its operating licence could be suspended if no price-reduction agreement is reached by 6 September 2025.
“The regulator informed me that you requested an extension until Monday. Under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA), every day that an operator fails to provide requested information attracts a GHC 10,000 penalty. I agreed to wait until Monday rather than starting charges immediately, as the difference of a few days was not critical at that stage.
“However, as of today’s meeting, the regulator has confirmed that the requested information has still not been provided. This makes it impossible to have a meaningful engagement, as the data we need to justify or challenge your pricing has not been submitted. From today, therefore, the Ministry will begin applying the statutory fine of GHC 10,000 per day until the full information is received,” said Sam George.
He added that the Ministry will conduct an “objective review” once the data is received to determine whether high subscription fees are driven by taxes or other factors.
“The law is clear, and we will enforce it. If necessary, we can freeze accounts to protect consumer interests.”
