...Against Suspension, Assures Subscribers

Liberia's oldest GSM Company, LoneStarCell/MTN has filed a notice of arbitration seeking to terminate a recent decision by Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) to suspense its operational licenses for three days beginning December 1-3, 2012.

LTA, known as the country's regulator, last weekend announced the suspension of the operational licenses of LonestarCell/MTN for allegedly disconnecting Comium-Liberia, another GSM service provider.

LTA explained that during the three days suspension period, LonestarCell/MTN subscribers will not make calls but will only receive calls from other networks.

The pronouncement has caused panic among LonestarCell/MTN subscribers and the general public as well.

However, LonestarCell/MTN Public Relations Manager, Dr. Lawrence Bropleh, said LTA is compelled by law to cease further action until final determination of the arbitration proceeding.

He told a news conference yesterday that there is no need for subscribers to acquire SIM card from any other GSM companies.

Dr. Bropleh said the company's action to file a notice of arbitration is in the interest of the country and its people.

He indicated that the company supports the growth, health and educational initiatives of the Liberian people.

Dr. Bropleh said the decision to suspend the company's operational license has security implication.

Also speaking at the news conference, LonestarCell/MTN Regulatory Relations Affairs Manager, Nathaniel Kevin said the execution of the LTA decision would damage LonestarCell/MTN equipment.

He said there's no way the company can implement the proposed instruction to suspense its' operation for three days, and the same time, receive calls through its network.

Providing some technical information on the effect of the propose instruction, Mr. Kevin noted that it is better that LTA asked LonestarCell/MTN to shut down completely.