MTN Group and Vodacom launched legal action against South Africa’s communications regulator, Icasa. The lawsuit challenges regulations scheduled to take effect in January 2027.
These rules mandate the rollover of unused data bundles and require opt-in systems for out-of-bundle charges. MTN filed court papers on July 22 to have the regulations declared invalid.
The operator argues Icasa overstepped its authority and risks stifling competition by removing low-cost, non-rollover options. MTN further claims the rules create market inequality because they exclude mobile virtual network operators.
This litigation escalates a regulatory dispute that has persisted for more than four years. Both operators maintain they remain committed to consumer protection despite the legal challenge.