Broadcasting service StarSat halts operations in South Africa due to licensing complications
StarSat, a satellite television service provider in South Africa, has left customers in a tough spot after its exit from the market and subsequent liquidation of its parent company, OnDigital Media.
The license for StarSat expired in July 2023, but the company missed the deadline to submit renewal documents. This led to the suspension of its broadcast signals, causing frustration among customers who were unable to access their favourite shows.
Since then, there has been little information regarding the status of refunds for StarSat customers. Searches in the public domain and media reports have not yielded any updates about whether refunds have been issued, if claims can still be submitted, or how customers should proceed.
Customers have taken to social media, particularly Facebook, to demand their money back. Many have reported that their emails and calls to customer service have gone unanswered, adding to their frustration.
The liquidation of OnDigital Media has effectively eliminated any chances of StarSat's revival. The company's financial struggles, including delays in refund payments, have been attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic and unresolved shareholder agreements.
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) raided StarSat's offices in October 2024, further complicating the situation. StarSat was in discussions with Icasa regarding the renewal issue, but the regulator still took action.
StarSat's intentions to resume broadcasting have not been realised due to its current financial situation and the liquidation of OnDigital Media. Customers who are still awaiting refunds are now one of many creditors hoping to recover their money.
For precise and current details, customers should consult official announcements from OnDigital Media's liquidators, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) of South Africa, or the National Consumer Commission (NCC) in South Africa. They may also review communications they received during or after the company's closure.
As recently as January 2025, StarSat expressed intentions of making a comeback, but the liquidation of OnDigital Media has negatively impacted these plans. Customers are advised to stay vigilant and continue checking official channels for updates.
Politics surrounding the liquidation of OnDigital Media, StarSat's parent company, has been a hot topic in general-news, with the finance sector closely monitoring the situation. The business implications of StarSat's exit from the market and the unresolved refund issues have raised concerns among customers and financial regulators alike.
