'Telcos will be bound to code'

OPERATORS will have no leeway when it comes to the handset subsidy code of conduct, says the Independent Communications Authority of SA (ICASA).

The regulator quietly published the code of conduct late last year, intended to govern the sale, lease, rental or subsidisation of equipment provided to subscribers by operators. Despite legal opinion to the contrary, ICASA says the operators will be tightly bound to the terms of the code.

ICASA's code stipulates that operators must state how much of the phone or device is subsidised and how much still needs to be paid. While there is still a period of public comment, which could change the code content, it could put the power of contract subscriptions back into the hands of the consumer.