StarSat, a competitive satellite TV operator against DStv, is actively working to relaunch its services following the shutdown ordered by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) in October 2024. The regulator took this step after StarSat failed to renew its broadcasting license in a timely manner.
Despite the order, StarSat continued its operations in the country. Jan Hendrik Harmse, StarSat’s marketing manager, stated that efforts are ongoing to restore services in South Africa, and the signal has already been re-established in other African nations where the company operates.
Harmse expressed gratitude for customers’ patience: “StarSat continues working diligently to relaunch its services. We will announce any changes,” he said.
The crisis escalated when Icasa and law enforcement officials raided StarSat’s headquarters in Midrand, Gauteng, on October 2, 2024. StarSat’s broadcasts to South Africa and other parts of Africa were disconnected after the raid. Harmse criticised the authorities for improperly dismantling equipment during the raid, stating, “They started unplugging things… ripping out all the equipment we need to broadcast.”
In an attempt to resolve the situation, StarSat has sought legal avenues to challenge the actions taken by Icasa despite being present when the regulatory body initiated the search and seizure. Harmse remarked on the difficulties ahead, stating that even if the court granted StarSat an urgent interdict, assessing damage and restoring the signals would be challenging.
As of late October 2024, Icasa spokesperson Zanele Ntuli reported that the organisation was unaware of any ongoing legal actions from StarSat, StarTimes, or On Digital Media.
“StarSat is still actively working on solutions to restore services. This is taking longer than anticipated, but we are not giving up,” a statement from the company read. They maintained optimism, indicating that it was only a matter of time before broadcasting would resume in South Africa.
StarSat’s troubles began when it failed to renew its broadcasting license, which expired in July 2023. Icasa mandated the company to cease operations by September 18, 2024. According to the Electronic Communications Act, broadcasters must apply for license renewals between twelve months prior and up to twelve months after their license expires. StarSat submitted its application in November 2023.
Icasa clarified that the authority is not to consider renewals for licenses that have already expired. Harmse admitted to the late submission, attributing it to various challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, including difficulties securing investors and finalising shareholder agreements.
He expressed confidence that StarSat had complied with all necessary regulations and should be permitted to operate in the country. However, he noted that Icasa was not receptive to discussing the matter.
