Asianet Pakistan Private Limited

The recent dispute between MultiChoice Ghana and the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation over DStv subscription fees was an opportunity to address legitimate public concerns about pricing fairness in our digital services sector. Instead, it has been reduced to a stage for populist posturing and political spinning that risks damaging public trust in the government.

The argument began reasonably enough but soon degenerated to a worrying pitch, with the minister displaying his trademark pomposity.

That Ghanaian subscribers pay nearly three times more for DStv’s premium bouquet than viewers in Nigeria is not in dispute. With the cedi under strain and consumers struggling, the call for a 30% reduction, led by Sam Nartey George, was timely and necessary.

MultiChoice resisted, warning of job losses and diminished service options. This set the stage for tough negotiations requiring skill, sobriety and clarity.

Unfortunately, the Minister of Communication chose grandstanding over good governance. He declared that no meeting with MultiChoice would end without a price reduction, only to later announce what he described as a ‘generational success story.’

Yet the supposed breakthrough turned out to be nothing more than an ongoing promotional offer – one already available in other markets since January. MultiChoice itself publicly contradicted the minister, exposing the hollowness of his claim.

Such misrepresentation does not only embarrass the government; it undermines the very cause of consumer protection. Ghanaians deserve honesty, not a repackaging of corporate promotions as hard-won victories. Worse still, the minister’s decision to personally chair negotiations sidelined regulators such as the National Communications Authority, whose independence is essential for a healthy digital sector.

The issue here is bigger than DStv fees. It is about the credibility of government communication, the integrity of regulatory processes, and the seriousness with which leaders handle matters that affect millions of households. Instead of substance, the public was served political theatre – complete with accusations, personal attacks, and an abdication of responsibility.

The minister now owes Ghanaians more than explanations. He must account for the fines levied against MultiChoice and apologise for misleading the public. Ultimately, the President must consider whether a ministry so central to Ghana’s digital transformation can continue to be led in this manner.

This episode is a reminder that populism is no substitute for policy. Consumers deserve solutions, not slogans.

There is no doubt that the minister needs lessons in courtesy. His radio interview during which he pompously recommended to the Ghana Education Service (GES) to rethink lessons in comprehension was vitriolic, unbecoming of a person holding a government appointment this important.

If we Ghanaians require more lessons in comprehension, according to him, we on the other hand demand that he is exorcised of his unacceptable badmouth and crude public conduct.

Multi-award-winning gospel singer, Diana Antwi Hamilton, headlined the ‘Comfort Plus Experience with Diana Hamilton’ at Redeemer’s Chapel in Maryland, USA, drawing a global audience to witness her ministration.

Themed ‘Move,’ the event, which took place on Saturday, September 27, gathered thousands of believers, gospel enthusiasts, and fans from across the United States, all eager to experience a night of praise, worship, and divine encounter.

From the moment Diana stepped on stage, she ignited the auditorium with back-to-back performances of her timeless hits, including ‘Adom’, ‘The Doing of the Lord’, ‘Nyame Ne Yen Adi No Yie’, ‘Nyame Ye’, ‘Yehowa Behwe’, ‘Osoro Bekasa’, and ‘Me Nyankopon Papabi’. Her spirited delivery charged the atmosphere, lifting hearts and drawing worshippers into an intense presence of God.

The evening reached a beautiful climax when Diana was unexpectedly joined on stage by legendary gospel duo The Tagoe Sisters and renowned gospel minister Ceccy Twum, where together they delivered a moving performance that left the audience in awe.

Supporting as always was her husband, Dr. Joseph Hamilton, who ensured the programme ran seamlessly. The night also featured performances from other gifted gospel ministers including MzNaana, Millicent Yankey, Herty Gorge, and Kenneth Appiah.

The Comfort Plus Experience comes on the heels of Diana’s widely celebrated Awake Experience 2025, which earlier this year took place in Accra, Kumasi, and Sunyani, drawing thousands across Ghana.

With Maryland’s unforgettable night of worship now added to her ministry’s milestones, Diana Hamilton continues to affirm her global impact as a vessel of gospel music, carrying messages of hope, faith, and God’s unfailing love wherever she ministers.

President John Dramani Mahama has vowed a tough stance against perpetrators of online romance scams, warning that all offenders, whether Ghanaian or foreign nationals, will be extradited and prosecuted without hesitation.

Speaking at the launch of Cyber Security Awareness Month in Accra on Wednesday, the President said Ghana is stepping up collaboration with international partners to tackle online fraud, stressing that decisive action will be taken once evidence is secured.

‘We’ve been collaborating with our international partners. When evidence is gathered and it is proven that people are involved in romance scams, using our extradition treaties we ship the culprits back,’ he stated.

President Mahama explained that Ghana would rely on existing extradition treaties to ensure that suspects are sent to jurisdictions where they can face trial.

‘So we will continue to collaborate with all our global partners. Anybody involved in romance scams, whether you are a foreigner or a Ghanaian citizen, we will hand you over to be tried and punished accordingly,’ he added.

He stressed that these measures were not only necessary to protect victims but also crucial for safeguarding the country’s international reputation as a responsible digital hub.

This year’s Cyber Security Awareness Month is being held under a theme that underscores the need for collective action to protect the nation’s digital ecosystem.

In line with that, President Mahama announced four flagship initiatives designed to accelerate the country’s digital transformation and enhance cybersecurity.

He mentioned the One Million Coders Programme, which he said will equip one million young Ghanaians with digital skills in coding, software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity.

The Digital Jobs Initiative, a public-private partnership, aims to create sustainable employment opportunities through technology.

In addition, he disclosed that the government would roll out a $50 million FinTech Group Fund to support indigenous startups and build a vibrant digital finance ecosystem.

The President said the 24-Hour Economy Initiative is also being introduced to promote digital resilience and ensure systems remain secure for continuous operations.

President Mahama further highlighted the importance of international cooperation in the fight against cybercrime, noting Ghana’s alignment with global frameworks such as the Malabo Convention and the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime.

He announced that the country would soon ratify and sign the United Nations Convention on Cybercrime, which will provide stronger tools for investigating cyberattacks, prosecuting offenders, and protecting critical infrastructure.

Calling on all Ghanaians to treat cybersecurity as a shared responsibility, the President urged citizens to stay vigilant and actively contribute to building a secure digital society.

He outlined his vision for a ‘digital Ghana’ that is safe, inclusive, and accountable, built on principles of progress with protection, innovation with integrity, and inclusion with justice.

‘Digitalisation without security is unsustainable, innovation without responsibility is dangerous, and opportunity without inclusion is unjust,’ President Mahama said, stressing the need to balance technological advancement with safeguards that protect people and institutions alike.

Ghanaian social media influencer, Okatakyie Afrifa-Mensah, believes collaboration between three of Ghana’s superstars; Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and Shatta Wale could put Ghana on the global map.

Okatakyie Afrifa, known on social media as ‘For the Records’, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), highlighted the potential impact of a joint effort from these prominent Ghanaian artistes on the international music scene.

On X, ‘For the Records’ wrote, ‘I can’t wait to see @sarkodie @shattawalegh and @stonebwoy collaborate in unity to put Ghana on the global map. They should lead and unite our entertainment industry. #focus.’

A collaboration between Shatta Wale, Sarkodie, and Stonebwoy is generating buzz online, as many are of the view that this collaboration, when fruitful, would be a historic moment in Ghanaian music, bringing together three of the country’s most influential artistes.

Sarkodie has already expressed his desire to work with Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy on a full album, stating it’s about creating a movement and pushing Ghana’s sound to a global audience.

Fans are eager to see these artistes unite, as each has carved out a significant space in their respective genres – hip hop, dancehall, and reggae. Their combined talent and fan base could create something truly remarkable. Additionally, a Ghanaian millionaire, HRH Oscar Yao Doe, has even offered to sponsor this collaboration, which would be a first in Ghanaian music history.

This potential collaboration also highlights the artistes’ individual successes and versatility. For instance, Sarkodie has previously worked with Shatta Wale and Stonebwoy, and Shatta Wale has hinted at featuring them on his album ‘Gift of God’.

A tragic galamsey accident in the Atwima Mponua District of the Ashanti Region has left at least seven people dead and several others injured after an illegal mining pit caved in at Kasotie on Wednesday evening.

The incident, which occurred around 6:00 p.m., involved about fifteen miners who had descended into the pit in search of gold. Eyewitnesses said the ground suddenly gave way, burying many of them alive.

Rescue efforts by surviving miners, supported by personnel from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and security services, managed to pull out some of the trapped individuals.

Eight miners were rushed to the Mpasaaso Government Hospital with varying degrees of injury, while bodies of the deceased were later retrieved from the rubble.

Initial reports suggested five deaths on Wednesday night, but by yesterday morning, the death toll had risen to seven after two more bodies were recovered. Fears remain that the number of fatalities could climb further, as some community members believe other miners may still be trapped.

‘The search went on through the night. We managed to rescue some alive, but sadly, we also found more bodies. We suspect others are still underground,’ an eyewitness told reporters.

The disaster has plunged the Kasotie farming community into mourning, with anxious families waiting for confirmation of missing loved ones. The identities of the deceased are yet to be officially released.

Meanwhile, the Ashanti Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has been briefed on the tragedy and is expected to deliberate on measures to address the growing menace of illegal mining in the area. Investigations are ongoing into the exact cause of the collapse.

FIFA has informed the Ghana Football Association of a venue change for the Black Stars’ penultimate 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic.

The match, which remains scheduled for Wednesday, 8 October 2025, will now be played at the Stade d’Honneur de Meknes in Morocco. Kick-off is set for 16:00 GMT.

The date, time, and officiating arrangements remain unchanged. Mauritian referee Patrice Milazare will take charge of the game, supported by assistants Louis Ralph Fabien Cauvelet of Mauritius and Shaji Padayachy of Seychelles.

Seychelles’ Noris Aaron Godfrey Arissol will serve as the fourth official, while Senegal’s Fatou Gaye acts as referee assessor.

Morocco’s Jamal Kaouachi has been appointed as match commissioner, with Odochi Joan Efughu of Nigeria handling security duties.

The Black Stars will be looking to strengthen their qualification hopes with a decisive performance in Meknes.

The Chief and people of Nkaseim in the Asutifi South District, have commended President John Mahama, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, and Newmont Gold Limited for their joint efforts in granting the community its long-awaited cooperative mining request, which is expected to create over 5,000 jobs.

According to residents and traditional leaders, the project, when officially launched, will not only provide sustainable employment for the teeming youth and boost the local economy, but will also help mitigate illegal mining activities and foster peaceful coexistence between the community and Newmont.

At a community engagement in honour of visiting officials from the newly established Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) and the Minerals Commission, traditional leaders expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns.

Led by the Nkasiemhene, Nana Danso Agyei Ababio II, the chiefs praised the administration’s timely intervention and ongoing negotiations with Newmont to cede part of its concession for the community-led initiative.

‘I thank His Excellency [President Mahama] that when we petitioned, they did not turn a blind eye. We look up to the government to ensure our youth can mine in peace and earn a decent living without fear,’ Nana Ababio II stated.

20-Years of Struggle

On his part, the Sompahene of Nkaseim, Nana Yaw Sarpong, expressed profound joy, recalling the community’s nearly 20-year struggle to obtain legal authorisation to mine on their ancestral lands.

‘This did not start today. It began back in 2007. We tried everything to get the licence so we could survive, but we never succeeded. People are working in the area, but when they hear officials are coming, they run into the bush. Why? Because technically, we are trespassing on someone else’s land,’ he lamented.

He added, ‘We’ve gone through multiple administrations without success. But when President Mahama came to power, within three months, he and Minister Kofi Armah-Buah came together to support us. Today, a delegation from Accra has come to verify our claims and engage us on the way forward. We are hopeful that when they report back, a lasting solution will be found.’

The government delegation was led by George Dadzie Jnr, Deputy National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP in charge of Operations.

The team engaged the Nkaseim Traditional Council and the broader community to discuss progress as final talks with Newmont continue.

The community has long appealed for the designation of a concession at Nkaseim-Mempehia, currently within Newmont’s operational area, for a formal community mining scheme.

For decades, residents have been working the land without legal authorisation.

Efforts by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government to finalise the arrangement fell through, leaving the project in limbo.

However, the current administration has revived the conversation through rCOMSDEP, leading to positive developments.

The delegation toured the proposed mining site to gather firsthand insights and assess progress on the ground.

The traditional leaders expressed deep gratitude to President Mahama, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and the entire government for their proactive steps to make the community mining initiative a reality.

Other dignitaries present at the engagement included Nana Boafo Armah, District Officer of the Minerals Commission at Kenyasi, Yaw Okyere, Council of State representative for the Ahafo Region, the Association of Nkaseim Youth, and several opinion leaders from the traditional area.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has introduced its Football4Girls initiative in the Takoradi Metropolitan area, a grassroots programme aimed at giving young girls the opportunity to play football, develop their love for the game, and connect with the broader goals of the GFA Women’s Football Strategy.

The launch drew participation from ten schools across the metropolis, including Bedu Addo Methodist Basic, Takoradi Presby Primary, Bishop O’Rorke Anglican, All Saints Anglican, Woode Methodist, Korsah Complex, Bethel Methodist Basic, Perry Hayford, Axim Road Primary, and Bishop Essuah Catholic School.

Designed to boost awareness and participation in girls’ football, the event highlighted the pathways outlined in the Women’s Football Strategy, showing participants the range of opportunities available to them in the sport, whether as players, coaches, referees, administrators, or other professionals.

Alongside educational sessions, the day featured fun activities and friendly matches, which gave the girls a chance to enjoy the game, build confidence, and forge new friendships.

Head of Women’s Football Development at the GFA, Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, described the initiative as part of a revolution in grassroots women’s football.

She stressed that Football4Girls is a central pillar of the Women’s Football Strategy, crafted to inspire and empower girls while laying a strong foundation for the long-term growth of women’s football in Ghana.

The Minority in Parliament has launched a blistering attack on the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, accusing him of populism, deception and gross incompetence in his handling of the dispute with pay-TV operator MultiChoice, owners of DStv.

At a press conference in Parliament yesterday, the Deputy Ranking Member of the Parliamentary Committee on Communications and Information, Charles Asuako Owiredu, said the minister’s conduct has embarrassed the country, undermined regulatory processes, and misled Ghanaians with false claims about a supposed breakthrough in negotiations with MultiChoice.

According to him, Minister Sam Nartey George must ‘render an unqualified apology to Ghanaians’ and resign, failing which President John Dramani Mahama must dismiss him.

The controversy began in August when the minister demanded a 30 percent reduction in DStv subscription fees, citing disparities between Ghana and Nigeria.

The DStv premium bouquet costs about $83 in Ghana compared to $29 in Nigeria. Mr. George argued that such a price gap was unjustifiable given the relative strength of the Ghana cedi.

The Minority said MultiChoice, however, rejected the demand as ‘untenable,’ warning that a forced reduction could lead to job losses and diminished service quality.

The Deputy Ranking Member asserted that the company proposed that it could only upgrade consumers to the next bouquet, a position the minister dismissed as illogical.

The Minority noted that efforts by South Africa’s foreign minister to mediate the impasse proved unsuccessful, accusing Sam George of adopting an ‘intransigent stance.’

Mr. Owiredu said matters came to a head when the Communications Minister publicly declared that he would personally convene a meeting between Ghanaian and South African representatives to ensure a reduction in subscription fees.

The Minority narrated that the minister, at one point, insisted, ‘I am clear in my mind that the meeting will not come to an end without an agreed price reduction.’

However, on September 29, after weeks of back and forth, Mr. Nartey George announced what he described as a major ‘success story’ – an offer by MultiChoice to allow subscribers to enjoy upgrades to higher packages under its long-running ‘Step Up’ promotion.

The Minority stated that he hailed this as a generational win for Ghanaian consumers.

Mr. Owiredu intimated that this was a blatant distortion of facts, arguing that MultiChoice has been running the ‘Step Up’ campaign in Ghana and other African countries since January 2025, alongside reduced decoder prices.

‘To repackage a routine promotion as the outcome of high-level negotiations is deceitful,’ he said.

He noted that MultiChoice itself appeared to confirm the Minority’s stance, citing a public statement in which the company denied agreeing to any fee reduction and explaining that the promotion was part of its ongoing consumer appreciation programmes, not a concession extracted by the minister.

‘This only proves what we have been saying all along – that the minister either does not understand the issues or is deliberately fabricating victories he has not won,’ Mr. Owiredu charged.

‘Such behaviour is not only disingenuous, it is dangerous for investor confidence in Ghana’s digital and communications landscape,’ he asserted.

The Minority further accused the minister of sidelining regulators such as the National Communications Authority (NCA), usurping their mandate, and adopting an arbitrary decision-making style.

They said his posture violated the President’s own code of conduct for ministers, which requires honesty, candour and respect in public service.

They also demanded accountability for fines reportedly imposed on MultiChoice, questioning how much had been collected and how the proceeds had been used.

‘Instead of answering legitimate questions from Ghanaians, the minister resorted to his usual trait of insults and attacks on critics,’ Mr. Owiredu said.

Ireland’s Ian Machado Garry will take on former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad in the co-main event of UFC Qatar on 22 November.

The 27-year-old Irishman is coming off a victory over Carlos Prates in April, having bounced back from his first UFC defeat at the hands of Shavkat Rakhmonov in December 2024.

Muhammad, meanwhile, lost his title to Jack Della Maddalena in May and will be looking to re-establish himself in the title picture with a win over Garry.

The outcome of the bout could set up a future meeting with the winner of Della Maddalena’s first title defence against Islam Makhachev at UFC 322 later in November. Makhachev, who recently vacated his lightweight belt to move up in weight, is eyeing a second championship run in a new division.

In the main event in Qatar, Armenia’s Arman Tsarukyan will square off against New Zealand’s Dan Hooker in a lightweight clash.

Tsarukyan makes his return after withdrawing from a scheduled title fight with Makhachev in January, while Hooker is set to compete for the first time since August 2024 following a long spell out with hand injuries.

The card also carries wider implications for the lightweight division, with Liverpool’s Paddy Pimblett closing in on a potential title shot.

Pimblett, 30, is seen as one of the frontrunners alongside American Justin Gaethje to challenge newly crowned champion Ilia Topuria.

However, the UFC could also choose to pair Topuria with Max Holloway, who is coming off a statement win over Dustin Poirier in July.