FREETOWN — Sierra Leone’s Parliament has summoned mobile network operators over a recent increase in weekly data bundle prices, a move that has sparked widespread public concern due to the absence of prior notice to consumers.
The issue was addressed on Friday, November 7, 2025, during a sitting in Committee Room 1. Lawmakers expressed strong displeasure over the matter, highlighting the impact on students and low-income users who rely on the affordable weekly bundle for daily activities, particularly academic research.
Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, criticized the unexpected price adjustment, noting that many students depend on the Le 60 weekly package.
He urged Africell and Orange to immediately review and revert the new tariffs.
Responding to questions, the Director General of Orange Sierra Leone, Sekou Amadou Bah, denied that the company had increased the data price itself.
He explained that the adjustment came as part of regulating service structures, which may influence data speed and user experience.
However, the explanation did not sit well with the committee.
Chairman of the committee, Hon. Boston Munda, firmly directed both mobile operators to restore the previous weekly data rates within 24 hours.
He stressed that Parliament holds the responsibility to safeguard the interests of citizens and will not tolerate changes that burden consumers.
The matter remains under parliamentary monitoring, with further discussions expected if compliance is not met.
Good parliamentarian