International Relations Expert, Dr. Ismael Hlover, has urged Ghanaians to rally behind Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George in his fight to compel MultiChoice Ghana, operators of DStv, to reduce subscription fees.
He argued that the matter has been unfairly framed as a battle between the Minister and the pay-TV giant, when in reality it is a fight for consumer rights and fairness in the digital service market.
According to him, public support is essential to ensure that the standoff produces tangible relief for households already burdened by rising costs.
Dr. Hlover noted that the issue has reached a sensitive stage where diplomatic channels must complement regulatory actions. He explained that since MultiChoice is a South African-owned company, engagement between Accra and Pretoria was the right approach.
“Where the issue has gotten to, I think it is right for the diplomatic path. Given that MultiChoice is a South African-owned enterprise and given the level of trade and investment between Ghana and South Africa, it is just appropriate that the diplomatic channel is open so that the issue is ironed out so it does not affect investor confidence,” he said in an interview with ABC News GH.
His remarks come as South Africa’s Minister of International Relations prepares to visit Ghana this week to help resolve the crisis, following an ultimatum by Minister Sam George that DStv’s operating licence would be suspended by August 7 if subscription fees were not reduced.
Dr. Hlover maintained that beyond diplomacy, citizens also have the power to influence outcomes by taking a united stand, noting that a collective boycott of services could have forced a price cut earlier.
He stressed that Ghanaians must view the Minister’s intervention as a fight on their behalf and give him the full backing needed to end what he described as exploitation in the subscription market.
BY Ruth Sekyi – [email protected]
