By: P. Uriah Suah
Ganta City, Nimba county —-The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has successfully launched and signed the Consumer Protection Regulations (CPR) during an official ceremony held at Jackie’s Guesthouse in Ganta City, Nimba County.
Providing an overview of the CPR, LTA Commissioner Patrick Honnah emphasized that the regulations were developed through nationwide consultative meetings with telecommunications providers, consumers, and key stakeholders.
“Some years ago, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority initiated the process of drafting what is now called the Consumer Protection Regulations. I like to call it the ‘People’s Regulations.’ This is a set of laws that directly affect the people—the consumers,” he asserted
According to Commissioner Honnah, the CPR aims to tackle deceptive practices by service providers, protect consumer privacy, and ensure that consumers give consent before their personal information is disclosed.
The regulations also mandate timely resolution of consumer complaints and concerns by telecommunications service providers. Additionally, the CPR empowers consumers with stronger protections and greater transparency in service delivery, enhancing a more reliable telecommunications environment.
and Set to take effect in 60 days.
At the time, Commissioner Honnah disclosed the set up of a dedicated short code, 2244, for consumers to report unresolved complaints directly to the LTA. However, consumers are required to first address their grievances with their service providers before escalating issues to the LTA.
“I must also say that the Liberia Telecommunications Authority is officially launching a short code for consumers across the country. However, there is a process—you have to exhaust all the channels before calling that short code. Before the close of today, you will see a giant-sized billboard with the inscription 2244, and that billboard will be in Ganta, Kakata, and Monrovia. We intend to spread it across the country because when you pass laws, you must inform the people about the laws you pass so they can know their rights and roles,” he narrated.
For his part, Consumer Manager Lekpele Nyamlon noted that the regulations aim to prevent misleading advertising and ensure fair pricing.
“A consumer support center will also be established to help resolve service issues and complaints,” he revealed.
The launch event was graced by LTA Commissioners, Acting Chairperson Hon. Abdullah L. Kamara, Hon. Sekou Kromah- minister of post and Telecommunications, Hon. Molly Kamara – Senior Economic Advisor to President Boakai, and over 400 participants from various sectors, including the marketing association, motorcycle union, high school students, and Nimba County residents.
The program featured live discussions, performances, and an official signing ceremony, marking a significant milestone in strengthening consumer rights within Liberia’s telecommunications sector.