Sam Nartey George
The recent dispute between MultiChoice Ghana and the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation over DStv subscription fees was an opportunity to address legitimate public concerns about pricing fairness in our digital services sector. Instead, it has been reduced to a stage for populist posturing and political spinning that risks damaging public trust in the government.
The argument began reasonably enough but soon degenerated to a worrying pitch, with the minister displaying his trademark pomposity.
That Ghanaian subscribers pay nearly three times more for DStv’s premium bouquet than viewers in Nigeria is not in dispute. With the cedi under strain and consumers struggling, the call for a 30% reduction, led by Sam Nartey George, was timely and necessary.
MultiChoice resisted, warning of job losses and diminished service options. This set the stage for tough negotiations requiring skill, sobriety and clarity.
Unfortunately, the Minister of Communication chose grandstanding over good governance. He declared that no meeting with MultiChoice would end without a price reduction, only to later announce what he described as a “generational success story.”
Yet the supposed breakthrough turned out to be nothing more than an ongoing promotional offer – one already available in other markets since January. MultiChoice itself publicly contradicted the minister, exposing the hollowness of his claim.
Such misrepresentation does not only embarrass the government; it undermines the very cause of consumer protection. Ghanaians deserve honesty, not a repackaging of corporate promotions as hard-won victories. Worse still, the minister’s decision to personally chair negotiations sidelined regulators such as the National Communications Authority, whose independence is essential for a healthy digital sector.
The issue here is bigger than DStv fees. It is about the credibility of government communication, the integrity of regulatory processes, and the seriousness with which leaders handle matters that affect millions of households. Instead of substance, the public was served political theatre – complete with accusations, personal attacks, and an abdication of responsibility.
The minister now owes Ghanaians more than explanations. He must account for the fines levied against MultiChoice and apologise for misleading the public. Ultimately, the President must consider whether a ministry so central to Ghana’s digital transformation can continue to be led in this manner.
This episode is a reminder that populism is no substitute for policy. Consumers deserve solutions, not slogans.
There is no doubt that the minister needs lessons in courtesy. His radio interview during which he pompously recommended to the Ghana Education Service (GES) to rethink lessons in comprehension was vitriolic, unbecoming of a person holding a government appointment this important.
If we Ghanaians require more lessons in comprehension, according to him, we on the other hand demand that he is exorcised of his unacceptable badmouth and crude public conduct.