The media conglomerate Canal+, owned by Vivendi, has stated that it is willing to work with Ghana’s regulator to resolve the ongoing dispute between MultiChoice Ghana and the government regarding subscription rates. Canal+ already owns over a third of MultiChoice, the parent company of Africa’s largest pay-TV operator, DStv.
The French media organization has taken a more positive stance on the issue than the current MultiChoice management, according to Samuel Nartey George, Minister of Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovation.
He clarified in a radio appearance with Joy FM on Tuesday, August 12, that Canal+ had contacted him directly following a briefing on the circumstances.
“They are aware of the situation going on here in Ghana, and I have made it clear to them,” he stated. “If they want to come into Ghana and operate on the licence of the company they are acquiring, this is our request. They have made certain indications, and I told them I want it in writing.”
The minister noted that Canal+ recently received anti-trust clearance from South African regulators to proceed with the full takeover of MultiChoice, a process expected to be completed by October. He said the new owners are likely to assume control from September.
“I don’t want to take public policy decisions on the basis of phone calls that have been made to me,” Mr George stressed. “I’ve asked them to put it in an official letter. Canal+ is willing to talk to us, and I will not run from the fact that their attitude is more positive than that of MultiChoice.”
