The Minority in Parliament, led by Mr Nyindam Matthew, Ranking Member on the Communications Committee, has called for an immediate suspension of all government plans related to the proposed merger or acquisition of the telecom operator AT (formerly AirtelTigo).

The group described the ongoing process as “shrouded in secrecy, contradictions, and a lack of transparency,” warning that it poses a serious threat to Ghana’s national interest and the integrity of the telecommunications sector.

At an earlier press conference, the Minority expressed concern that the government’s handling of the proposed deal had been inconsistent and confusing.

They cited a Ministry of Communications announcement about the merger—posted on its social media platforms shortly after a meeting with AT management and staff—as an example of poor communication that has deepened uncertainty among industry stakeholders.

Adding to the controversy, the group pointed out discrepancies between the Minister’s statements and comments made by Telecel Group CEO, who reportedly told Bloomberg that the company planned to back the merger with a $50 million network upgrade.

Both the Bloomberg story and the Ministry’s social media post have since been deleted, a move the Minority says “only fuels suspicion” about the transparency of the process.

“This transaction is unconscionable — an attempt to dispose of a vital national asset for private gain,” the Minority declared, stressing that Telecel lacks the financial and technical capacity to manage such an acquisition.

They cited Telecel’s over $400 million indebtedness and its failure to fulfil previous investment promises, including a $500 million pledge made during the company’s acquisition of Vodafone Ghana.

According to the Minority, Telecel’s primary motivation is to absorb AT’s over three million customers and expand its market share — a move that could harm competition and disadvantage consumers.

The Minority also warned that the proposed merger could result in massive job losses, including 300 direct employees, 200 contract staff, and more than 10,000 indirect workers such as vendors, distributors, and mobile money agents.

They cautioned that Telecel’s restructuring plans could undermine small-scale businesses and disrupt essential digital financial services that many Ghanaians depend on for daily transactions.

In addition, the group expressed alarm over the possible implications for the $50 million Digital Infrastructure Venture (DIV) Project, funded by the World Bank, which has connected over 900 districts and public institutions nationwide. They warned that any disruption to AT’s infrastructure could hinder government service delivery and exacerbate Ghana’s digital divide.

Highlighting AT’s strategic role in advancing digital inclusion and affordable telecommunications, the Minority questioned the rationale behind dismantling a low-cost, accessible network that serves millions of low-income users.

They called on President John Mahama to intervene and direct the Minister for Communications to prioritise revitalising AT rather than pursuing what they described as a “rushed and opaque disposal” of the company.

The group also demanded a comprehensive parliamentary inquiry into all aspects of the proposed merger — including contractual agreements, correspondence, and expert assessments — to ensure transparency, accountability, and public oversight.

“Ghana’s strategic assets belong to the people, not to a few individuals acting in secrecy,” the statement emphasised.

“Any deal executed without parliamentary scrutiny and due process will face reversal, legal challenge, and reputational damage.”