The High Court in Juba has summoned MTN South Sudan to appear on November 18, 2026, to respond to a civil lawsuit challenging its handling of unused data bundles, poor network coverage, and difficulties accessing mobile money services. The case, filed by Peter Malou Jalap, represents not only himself but also other affected subscribers. This lawsuit, registered as Petition No. 455/2026, comes after Jalap's complaints and appeals to the National Communications Authority, MTN Group headquarters, and consumer protection organisations went unanswered.
According to Jalap's petition, MTN automatically deletes paid but unused data and voice bundles upon expiry, even when subscribers cannot use them due to network interruptions. Furthermore, approximately SSP 10 billion remains locked in the MTN Mobile Money system, leaving customers unable to access their funds due to transaction failures, poor network connectivity, and liquidity challenges among mobile money agents. This situation has caused significant inconvenience to subscribers.
The petitioner also pointed to persistent network outages in Lakes, Warrap, Jonglei, and the Equatoria region, which have resulted in subscribers losing their purchased bundles before network services are restored. These outages disproportionately affect students, small businesses, and rural communities that depend on internet connectivity and mobile money services for their daily activities. Jalap stated, “In South Sudan, we pay for internet but remain offline because either data is deleted or there is no network coverage.”
In his petition, Jalap is asking the court to declare the automatic deletion of paid but unused data and voice bundles without rollover or refunds an unfair practice. He is also seeking an order requiring MTN to introduce a rollover or refund policy for affected subscribers. Additionally, Jalap is seeking an audit of inaccessible mobile money balances, compensation for affected subscribers, general damages, and reimbursement of legal costs.
The court admitted the petition and issued a summons requiring MTN South Sudan to appear and respond to the allegations. MTN South Sudan is expected to respond to the allegations when the matter comes before the High Court on November 18, 2026. The company's response will likely address the claims made by Jalap and potentially outline steps the company will take to resolve the issues.
The lawsuit highlights the challenges faced by mobile network subscribers in South Sudan, particularly in areas with poor network coverage. It also underscores the need for mobile network operators to implement fair practices regarding unused data and voice bundles. The case will likely have significant implications for MTN South Sudan and potentially other mobile network operators in the country.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how mobile network operators handle unused data bundles and poor network coverage in South Sudan. If the court rules in favour of Jalap, MTN South Sudan may be required to implement a rollover or refund policy for affected subscribers and provide compensation for losses incurred. This could lead to improved services and greater accountability from mobile network operators in the country.
Key points
- MTN South Sudan has been summoned to appear before the High Court in Juba on November 18, 2026.
- The lawsuit challenges MTN's handling of unused data bundles, poor network coverage, and difficulties accessing mobile money services.
- The petitioner is seeking an order requiring MTN to introduce a rollover or refund policy for affected subscribers.
