StarSat Issues Out Official Statement Following Dispute With ICASA

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On Digital Media (ODM), the licensing company of pay television platform StarSat TV, acknowledges the statement issued by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), dated 20 September 2024, regarding StarSat’s potential exit from the subscription market in South Africa.

Owing to challenges in securing new investment in a competitive market, along with the introduction of a new shareholders agreement and the economic pressures following the COVID-19 pandemic, ODM submitted its license renewal application to ICASA later than the required deadline. Despite multiple attempts to seek guidance from ICASA officials to address these regulatory challenges, ODM did not receive the necessary support.

Furthermore, the Gauteng High Court recently dismissed an urgent interdict application filed by ODM to block ICASA’s decision to cease its operations as of 18 September 2024. A review application is pending to address the substantive legal issues between the two parties once the court date is set.

In light of these developments, StarSat is both surprised and concerned by ICASA’s recent statement, particularly as legal proceedings are currently underway. Over the past 18 months, StarSat has maintained consistent and comprehensive communication with ICASA. Any suggestion that the company has failed to engage with the regulatory authority is incorrect, as extensive correspondence is evidence of its commitment to constructive dialogue.

Given ICASA’s commitment to enabling economic growth, the potential loss of jobs is especially troubling. This situation could jeopardise the livelihoods of more than 600 ODM employees and disrupt the broader network of over 4,000 dealers and sales agents who rely on its operations.

Beyond economic growth, ICASA is also committed to ensuring the dissemination of information, entertainment, and education to the public. StarSat plays a key role in this, providing quality content to over 500,000 subscribers at affordable rates. Its service offers a diverse range of programming that supports the informational and entertainment needs of South Africans.

Despite the current challenges, StarSat will remain operational, and is committed to providing uninterrupted service to its users and business partners.