By Amin Kef Sesay
Following allegations of blocking of calls from Qcell to other networks, in which the regulatory body NATCOM was implicated, a Press Release was issued by the regulator further clearing the air and explaining the reason for the blocking of Qcell calls. See release below:
READ PRESS RELEASE BELOW
The attention of the National Telecommunications Commission (NATCOM) has been drawn to a press release from QCELL relating to blocking of calls to and from their network.
Two weeks ago, calls to and from QCELL network were blocked, and when that was brought to our attention, we intervened and resolved the issue. It is NATCOM’s role to maintain stability and fair market play in the sector.
The public should be aware that due to the FINANCE ACT, 2020 in which a Cap of Le 650 was put, NATCOM put a floor of Le 590, which was agreed upon by all MNOs, NRA and the Ministry of Finance.
QCELL, however, has not been fully compliant with the dictates of the floor price, even after several correspondences and meetings.
QCELL wrote a letter to the Commission on the 10th March 2020, indicating that they had fully implemented the dictates of the floor price across board. The Commission however found out that QCELL has still not complied.
After several correspondences and meetings between and among MNOs, NRA, and NATCOM, QCELL still has issues with full compliance with the FLOOR PRICE.
Pursuant to sections 52, 53, 54, and 55 of the telecommunications act 2006 as amended, the Commission will bring the parties together to have this amicably resolved.
As a Commission, we are working round the clock to ensure and enhance customer satisfaction in the telecommunications sector.
