The Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has questioned President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to reduce cocoa prices, suggesting the move was politically calculated because the country is not in an election year.
Speaking at Akokoamon in the Tano North Constituency, Ahafo Region, Annoh-Dompreh alleged that the NDC administration is strategically cutting prices now far from an election window with the intention of restoring them as a vote winning gesture when polls draw near
“Would President Mahama have dared reduce cocoa prices if it were an election year?”
According to him, the timing of the price reduction raises concerns about the government’s commitment to the welfare of cocoa farmers.
Mr. Annoh-Dompreh further criticized the government for allegedly prioritizing party structures over farmers’ welfare. He claimed that National Democratic Congress (NDC) constituency offices receive GH₵20,000 monthly while regional offices receive GH₵100,000, at a time cocoa farmers are struggling with reduced producer prices. He attributed the disclosure to comments reportedly made by the party’s Deputy General Secretary, Mustapha Gbande.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Tano North, Dr. Gideon Boako, also accused the Mahama administration of withdrawing benefits previously enjoyed by cocoa farmers and failing to fulfill campaign promises made to them.
Dr. Boako stated that the President had promised to provide boreholes on cocoa farms but had not delivered on the pledge. He added that farmers are currently facing challenges due to the lack of fertilizers, pruning support, and pollination services.
He described the situation as unfair to farmers, noting that many are struggling to cater for their families, pay hospital bills, and support their children’s education following the reopening of schools.
“No fertilizer, no pruning, no pollination. Schools have resumed, yet cocoa farmers’ children are still at home. This is a complete scam.”
The MP assured constituents of his continued commitment to advocating for improved conditions for cocoa farmers and pledged to work toward delivering on promises made to them.
Cocoa farmers in Tano North added their voices to the growing discontent, lamenting that payments for cocoa sold since November last year remain outstanding. Many said they had been deceived, having voted based on Mahama’s campaign promise to raise cocoa prices only to see them cut after he assumed power.