The parliament will address the escalating telecommunication tariffs after the committee that is investigating alleged malpractices within telecommunications companies submits its report, an MP has said.
Last week, mobile telecommunication operators Zain, MTN, and Digitel announced a three-phase cost adjustment plan for October to December.
The first adjustment took effect on October 18, with subsequent adjustments scheduled for November 18 and December 18, 2024.
This announcement came a month after the parliament established a committee to investigate alleged malpractices in the telecommunications sector.
“The network service providers are increasing tariffs. However, we cannot do anything as long as the investigation into alleged malpractice in telecommunication companies is still ongoing until the committee presents its findings in Parliament; that’s when the public will be protected from this tariff increase,” said Hon. Juol Nhomngek, a lawmaker at the national assembly.
Nhomngek, who represents Lakes State in the TNLA, presented a motion that initiated the investigation. He detailed serious accusations against individuals within MTN South Sudan and ZTE Corporation, alleging that they demanded illegal kickbacks from subcontractors.
According to Hon. Nhomngek, these practices have significantly inflated the cost of communication services in the country, impacting the general public.
Hon. Mary Nyaulang Reth, who chaired the committee, entrusted it with investigating these claims and reporting back within two weeks.
However, the committee has not yet returned to the house with its findings.
Nhomngek said the committee will finish the task after the budget process.
“The committee has finished investigating the government departments; we are remaining with MTN and other service providers because of the budget. So, after the budget, we shall complete the investigation and table the findings in Parliament,” said Nhomngek.
In a joint statement, the telecommunication companies announced that the three-phase cost adjustments were implemented following an agreement with the National Communication Authority and the Bank of South Sudan, in line with the exchange rate.
“This adjustment follows a thorough analysis of its impact on customers and the telecommunications service sector. Henceforth, telecommunication service prices will be aligned with BoSS’ official exchange rate,” the joint statement reads.
Since the first phase went into effect on October 18, operators have increased the cost of internet and mobile airtime subscriptions by an additional 600 South Sudanese pounds.
As a result, subscribers now pay SSP1,565 for 100 MB with Zain, SSP1,790 for 100 MB with MTN, and SSP1,835 for 100 MB with Digitel, instead of the previous SSP900.
Similar adjustments are set to also take place on November 18 and December 18, 2024, respectively.
Due to the severe economic crisis in the country, telecommunications companies in agreement with the National Communication Authority have been adjusting their service fees since September 2022 to align with the fluctuating exchange rates.
