By Ashiadey Dotse
Legal practitioner Theophilus Dzimega Junior has urged the management of DStv to return to the negotiation table with the Minister for Communication, Innovation and Digital Technology, Mr Samuel Nartey George, to resolve the ongoing dispute over the proposed 30% reduction in subscription fees.
“Pipe down, and return to the negotiation table in good faith,” he advised.
Speaking on GTV’s Breakfast Show on Monday, 4 August 2025, Mr Dzimega said the tone and content of DStv’s response to the Minister suggest a hardened stance and veiled threats, which could backfire if not addressed carefully. He warned that businesses that challenge governments often suffer, not just in court, but in public trust and revenue.
He also criticised DStv’s customer service, describing it as “one of the worst in the country.” According to him, customers are frequently left on hold for extended periods or redirected to third parties for issues that should be resolved directly by DStv.
Comparing subscription prices across Africa, Mr Dzimega argued that Ghanaian consumers pay disproportionately high fees. He cited examples such as Liberia, Angola, Nigeria, and Botswana, suggesting that pricing has more to do with company policy than population size.
“For example, in Liberia, with a population of 5.6 million, customers pay $61 for the premium package. In Angola, they pay $33. But here in Ghana, with 34 million people, we pay $82. It’s unfair,” he said.
Mr Dzimega further cautioned DStv not to underestimate the strong public support behind the Minister’s call for price reduction. He noted that many subscribers, including himself, are withholding renewals as a sign of protest. With the Premier League season approaching, he said the impact of reduced renewals could soon be felt.
He accused DStv of operating like a monopoly, relying heavily on sports content to retain subscribers. However, he pointed out that platforms such as YouTube and Netflix are becoming increasingly attractive alternatives for movies and documentaries.
He also warned DStv against making dismissive remarks, such as referring to Ghana’s economic improvements as a “fluke,” arguing that such statements undermine the intelligence and efforts of Ghanaians.
If the company continues along this path, Mr Dzimega said, it risks serious brand damage, customer loss, and long-term consequences.
He concluded that the Minister is standing on firm legal ground, and that a continued public confrontation would not be in DStv’s best interest.
