The Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations has imposed a statutory fine of GH¢10,000 per day on MultiChoice Ghana (DSTV) for failing to provide critical pricing information requested under the Electronic Communications Act (ECA).
The penalty, which took effect on Friday, August 15, 2025, was announced by the Sector Minister, Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), during a meeting with DSTV officials at the Ministry.
According to the minister, DSTV was required to submit a detailed breakdown of subscription packages, tax components, and comparative pricing data from at least six other African countries.
The request, he explained, was to enable the government to engage meaningfully with the company on reducing subscription costs for Ghanaian consumers.
“DSTV had requested an extension until Monday, August 11, 2025, to submit the information. I agreed to wait until then rather than applying the fine immediately,” Hon. Nartey George said. “But as of today’s meeting, the regulator has confirmed that the requested information has still not been provided. The law is clear, and we will enforce it.”
Under the ECA, failure to submit required information attracts a fine of GH¢10,000 for each day of non-compliance.
The Ministry had earlier warned that DSTV’s operating licence could be suspended if subscription prices were not reduced by September 6, 2025. The threat followed the company’s refusal to commit to price adjustments, despite proposals from the government.
Hon. Nartey George stressed that the sanctions are a matter of compliance, not negotiation. “This request for information is separate from ongoing engagements. Without the data, there is no basis for discussion. If necessary, we can even freeze accounts to protect consumer interests,” he said.
He further assured that the government’s position will be guided by evidence once the company complies. “If the data proves that taxes are the sole driver of high subscription costs, I will personally advocate for a tax review. If not, we expect DSTV to comply with directives to make subscriptions more affordable.”
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