Freetown – Parliament has temporarily suspended its directive ordering mobile network operators to reverse the recent adjustments made to their data and call tariffs, after the companies requested additional time to comply.
Last week, legislators summoned representatives of the major telecom providers to explain the sudden tariff increases, which sparked widespread public concern and criticism, particularly among students and low-income users who depend heavily on affordable data packages.
Following the engagement, Parliament issued a 24-hour ultimatum instructing the companies to revert the tariffs to their previous rates.
However, industry representatives reportedly appealed for the suspension of the order, arguing that the technical systems involved in pricing adjustments cannot be immediately reversed without risking network disruptions.
They noted that implementation requires coordination with multiple regional and international partners who support their billing and network infrastructure.
Parliament has now scheduled another hearing to continue discussions and determine the next course of action.
Civil society actor and consumer advocate, Edmond Abu, condemned the development, insisting that the telecom companies’ hesitation amounts to defiance.
He argued that failing to enforce Parliament’s order undermines the authority of the state and disrespects Sierra Leonean subscribers who are already struggling with rising living costs.
The public now awaits the outcome of the next hearing, as debates over affordability and regulation continue.
