- Lawyer Musah Ahmed says only the NCA can revoke DStv’s licence, not the Minister
- Minister reportedly directed NCA to begin suspension process if price issues persist
- Minister’s concern for consumer protection acknowledged, but legal limits stressed
Private legal practitioner Musah Ahmed has stated that the Minister for Communications does not have the legal authority to revoke the broadcasting licence of DStv in Ghana.
His comments follow recent warnings from MP Sam George, who gave MultiChoice Ghana until August 7 to reduce subscription fees in line with regulatory standards, or face licence suspension.
During the Government Accountability Series held on August 1, the Minister announced that he had officially written to the National Communications Authority (NCA), instructing them to begin the process of suspending DStv’s operations should the company fail to adjust its prices.
Appearing on JoyNews’ NewsDesk, Musah Ahmed — Lead Counsel at Ahmed Legal Consult — responded by drawing a clear line between the role of the minister and the powers conferred by law.
He explained:
“The law lays out specific procedures and conditions under which a licence may be revoked, as detailed in Section 13. These include principles of competitiveness, international best practices, and a commitment to free enterprise and the rule of law.”
While acknowledging that the minister’s position is driven by a desire to protect consumer interests, Ahmed clarified that actual regulatory power lies with the NCA, not the Minister.
“In my view, the Minister cannot, on his own, revoke a licence. He may issue directives, but any such action must be carried out by the NCA, following due process as outlined in the law.”
He further noted that the Minister’s language suggests he is instructing the NCA rather than taking direct action himself — a distinction that aligns with the legal structure of regulatory authority.
“Ultimately, both the Minister and the regulator must operate within the boundaries of the law,” Ahmed concluded.
