We need a telecoms hero!

There seems to be a lot of interest in the ICT sector from politicians these days.

First there was the Independent Democrats leader Patricia de Lille making very public and vocal statements around the cost of mobile communications. Then we saw the Department of Communications and Parliament becoming involved in what has become a very high-profile tug of war around mobile interconnect rates. Now, Parliament wants Telkom to report to them and there’s talk of potential retail pricing regulations.

For years the sector called out for help, asking for a strong leader within the Communications Department. Now, it seems like a bit of overkill. Or not?

My view is that it’s great that we’re finally having the tough discussions around communications costs – particularly mobile communications. It’s become an every-day tool for most people in the country so any form of saving would be very welcome. I also think it’s time other issues are addressed, such as geographic number portability, carrier pre-select, etc.

But when it comes to retail prices? Come on! In my opinion regulating prices at a retail level, will in fact hinder or discourage competition. If you set a maximum rate that can be charged, I’m pretty sure your operators are going to probably charge slightly lower, but stay pretty much within range of that cap. So where will the competition be?

So, with all this sudden political involvement in telecoms, we’re no further to resolving the interconnection fee issue, competition is still basically non-existent and frankly consumers are still bearing the brunt!

I’m beginning to think we need a real telecoms maverick to enter the market and challenge the status quo that is costing us, as consumers, an arm and a leg.