Policy analyst Solomon Owusu has raised concerns over the government’s planned SIM re-registration exercise, questioning what consequences will follow if the process fails again.
His comments come in response to plans announced by Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George to undertake a fresh SIM registration exercise aimed at improving data accuracy and tackling fraud.
Owusu criticised the repeated attempts at SIM registration, arguing that Ghanaians have already gone through similar exercises in the past with limited success. He questioned the justification for another round, stressing the need for accountability if the new process does not achieve its intended results.
According to him, government must clearly outline the consequences should the exercise fail again, especially considering the cost, inconvenience, and public frustration associated with previous registrations. He suggested that without clear benchmarks and accountability measures, the exercise risks becoming another ineffective initiative.
The debate comes amid government assurances that the upcoming registration will be more efficient and technologically advanced. Authorities have indicated that the new system will involve biometric verification and improved coordination between institutions to ensure accurate identification of mobile subscribers.
Officials have also maintained that the exercise is necessary to address issues such as mobile money fraud, identity duplication, and data inconsistencies from earlier registration efforts.
However, Owusu insists that beyond the promises, government must be prepared to take responsibility if the process does not deliver results. He emphasized that public trust depends on transparency, proper execution, and measurable outcomes.
The ongoing discussion highlights broader concerns about digital governance, data management, and the effectiveness of large-scale national registration exercises in Ghana.
