MTN Group has taken a positive step in its fight against accusations of bribery and using political influence in its bid to secure a telecoms licence in Iran.
The giant South Africa-based operator, which owns subsidiaries across Africa as well as in Asia, is facing a US$4.2 billion lawsuit from Turkish rival Turkcell.
The US Supreme Court has ruled US courts are unable to hear human rights cases brought by foreign plaintiffs for conduct committed outside of the United States. The US Federal Court, which Turkcell is using to sue MTN Group, had delayed its ruling on the case until this Supreme Court matter had been resolved.
Speaking to Reuters, MTN Group chief executive officer Sifiso Dabengwa said: “It’s definitely a positive for our case.”
Turkcell has declined to comment, saying it would be “inappropriate” before the Federal Court ruling.
MTN denies the charges made against it.
