Cell C objects to network sharing between MTN and Telkom

Cell C, South Africa’s third largest mobile operator, informed the country’s Competition Commission that it opposes the network sharing deal between rival MTN and the country’s largest fixed operator Telkom, which has a small mobile presence.

Cell C CEO Jose Dos Santos said his company does not agree with the proposed transaction as it stands.

Telkom started negotiations with MTN in March as it looked to cut costs at its loss-making mobile business. Sipho Maseko, Telkom’s CEO, recently said the company is battling with a decline in landline use and increasing operating expenses as it struggles to make an impact on the mobile market.

Telkom Mobile had just 1.9 million connections at the end of the second quarter, putting it firmly in last place. Market leader Vodacom had 32.5 million connections with MTN on 23.3 million connections and Cell C on 16.8 million.

Telkom and MTN already have an agreement in place to allow roaming on their respective networks but MTN is believed to be keen to gain access to Telkom’s spectrum.

A Competition Commission representative said they are examining the proposal — something that is seen as normal practice with such deals.