Samuel Nartey George Clashes With PAC Chair Over Poor Telecom Service
Heated exchange erupts as minister defends government plans to improve network quality nationwide
By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi/ Emmanuel Ayiku for GhanaianNewsCanada | May 18, 2026
A tense moment unfolded at Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) sitting after Samuel Nartey George engaged in a heated exchange with PAC Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare during discussions over poor telecommunication service delivery in Ghana. The disagreement reportedly occurred as lawmakers questioned efforts to address persistent complaints about weak mobile network performance and service quality across the country.
The Communications Minister defended government interventions aimed at improving telecom services, insisting that steps were already underway to improve customer experience and strengthen infrastructure under the administration’s digital agenda. He argued that while telecom operators are private businesses focused on profits, government policy must ensure consumer protection and improved service standards.
Tensions reportedly escalated after interruptions during questioning, with the minister insisting on being allowed to complete his responses before further interjections. During the exchange, both sides challenged each other over procedure, respect during committee proceedings, and the urgency of addressing poor service delivery concerns affecting Ghanaians.
According to the minister, major telecom operators are expected to significantly expand infrastructure this year to improve network reliability nationwide. He disclosed that MTN Ghana plans to roll out approximately 800 new network sites, while Telecel Ghana is expected to add another 350 sites, bringing the projected total to about 1,150 new installations in 2026.
Samuel George further explained that telecom upgrades involve complex technical processes including land acquisition, regulatory approvals, and procurement of specialized radio equipment. He noted that equipment deliveries are expected between July and August, expressing confidence that network quality improvements could begin becoming noticeable by the end of the third quarter of the year into the fourth quarter.
The PAC sitting has since attracted significant public attention online, with many Ghanaians debating both the quality of telecom services and the heated nature of parliamentary oversight proceedings.
