The prime minster of Burkina Faso, Christophe Dabire, has labelled Orange’s propose price hike “unacceptable”.
Earlier this month, Orange notified its customers that it would increase tariffs by 2.04% from 17th February. The increase follows the introduction of the government’s 2020 Finance Act, which raises operator revenue tax from 5% to 7%.
In a post on Twitter, Dabire expressed disappointment that Orange had acted without first airing its concerns to his administration, writing: “Without a study proving the tax burden on the telecom sector is excessive, the government will not accept any increase linked to the adoption of the finance bill.”
Dasmane Traore, head of the consumer interest group Ligue des Consommateurs du Burkina, said “this increase is unjustified and shows contempt for consumers … especially as we face issues with poor network quality.” He advised customers to boycott Orange if the price hike was implemented.
