South African High Commissioner-designate, Benjamin Kofi Quashie, has weighed in on the ongoing standoff between the Ministry of Communications and Multichoice Ghana, warning that the issue could affect diplomatic relations and investor confidence in Ghana.
Speaking on JoyNews on Friday, September 5, 2025, Mr. Quashie described the impasse over DStv pricing as a matter best resolved through dialogue rather than public exchanges.
“The challenge could be resolved amicably in the boardroom rather than in the public domain,” he said, adding that information he had received indicated that Pretoria was ready to negotiate.
He explained that the Communications Ministry’s directive for a reduction in DStv charges was grounded in a regional assessment, which showed that Ghanaian subscribers were paying higher rates compared to other countries.
According to him, while Multichoice has agreed to a reduction, disagreements remain over the framework — a gap he believes both parties can bridge through dialogue.
“Even if they are exiting, diplomatically, it’s not good for the optics and also not good for them to leave on a bitter note,” he stressed.
Mr. Quashie further commended Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs for engaging extensively with her South African counterparts to find a solution. He dismissed suggestions that diplomats had failed to intervene, insisting that high-level talks were already underway.
“We’re not at war with you, but only want the right things to be done. With Okudjeto in there, the matter will be resolved,” he said.
He cautioned that retaliatory actions from South Africa could have implications for Ghanaian interests and investor confidence, but expressed confidence that the Mahama administration would resolve the matter in the coming days.
“We need to marry the interests of Ghanaians and that of Multichoice and amicably resolve the matter. The company has agreed to a reduction but only disagrees with the framework. Both parties can sit to agree on the way forward,” he noted.
Source: Adomonline
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