- MP Davis Opoku urges the government to halt AT Ghana–Telecel merger
- Warns merger could increase inefficiency and strengthen MTN’s dominance
- Rektron Group proposes $150M investment to acquire and revamp AT Ghana
The Member of Parliament for Mpraeso, Davis Ansah Opoku, is calling on the government to suspend the proposed merger between AT Ghana and Telecel, cautioning that the move could worsen inefficiencies and further entrench MTN’s dominance in the telecommunications sector.
Mr. Opoku, who had previously endorsed efforts to rebalance the telecom market, stressed that a stronger alternative now exists and deserves full consideration before any merger is finalized.
He referred to a proposal from Canadian multinational Rektron Group, which has presented proof of $150 million in funding to KPMG, the government’s appointed transaction advisor, to acquire a majority stake in AT Ghana. The offer includes clearing AT’s existing debts, recapitalizing its operations, upgrading infrastructure, and accelerating the rollout of 4G and 5G networks.
“This is a credible and strategic investment that could restore competition and rebuild public confidence in the telecom sector,” Mr. Opoku stated. “Proceeding with a rushed merger of two struggling operators while overlooking a well-funded investor with a clear roadmap risks repeating the errors of hasty decision-making.”
The MP also raised concerns over ongoing government discussions with MTN regarding 5G deployment, despite the Next-Gen Infrastructure Company (NGIC) holding an exclusive ten-year nationwide 5G license.
He warned that allowing parallel arrangements could lead to regulatory confusion, undermine policy credibility, and weaken fair competition in the market.
Mr. Opoku called for transparency and accountability, urging the government to subject both the Rektron proposal and the AT–Telecel merger to open and thorough scrutiny.
“Parliament and the public need full clarity on which path best safeguards public funds, promotes competitive fairness, and guarantees affordable, reliable services for Ghanaians,” he said.
He concluded by stressing that Ghana’s digital transformation hinges on correcting structural imbalances in the telecom sector and reinforcing regulatory oversight.
“Empowering the regulator and ensuring strict compliance with licensing conditions are essential steps toward curbing MTN’s dominance and protecting the long-term health of our telecom industry,” Mr. Opoku added.
