MDP proposes amendment to fix fee for household internet
The proposal aims to address issues with water, electricity, sewerage, and internet service providers.
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Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has proposed an amendment to the Consumer Protection of Goods and Services Act to prevent telecommunications companies and utility providers from charging additional fees for extending services to all parts of a household.
The amendment was introduced on December 8 by Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim.
The proposal aims to address issues with water, electricity, sewerage, and internet service providers, ensuring uniform service delivery without extra charges.
In the amendment, MP Mohamed Ibrahim cited the following reasons:
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Monopoly in water, electricity, and sewerage services, and limited competition between the two primary internet service providers in the Maldives.
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Service providers often face challenges in extending services to different parts of a household, leading to additional charges for recipients.
The proposed amendment seeks to introduce a new article after Article 32 of the Act, which would mandate that:
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Providers of internet, water, electricity, and sewerage services deliver these services to all parts of a household at the same rate, intensity, and speed.
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It is the service provider's responsibility to ensure seamless service delivery across the household, with no additional fees allowed.
The amendment also outlines actions to be taken if a service provider violates these provisions:
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The recipient of the service may appeal to the Consumer Ombudsperson.
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The recipient may also seek a court order to ensure service provision.
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The recipient has the right to sue for damages under the law.
