South African regulator’s approach to spectrum auction was unlawful, court says

JOHANNESBURG: A South African judge said he had halted the radio frequency spectrum auction planned this month by regulator ICASA because he deemed the process unlawful and irrational.

High Court Judge Selby Baqwa passed an order on Monday prohibiting the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) from proceding with the auction, pending a hearing on contentions raised by telecoms operator Telkom and broadcaster e.tv.