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The Minority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has criticised the government’s decision to reduce cocoa producer prices, suggesting the move would not have occurred if the country were heading into an election year.
Speaking during the Minority Caucus’ tour of cocoa-growing communities, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh questioned the timing of the price adjustment and described it as politically motivated. He argued that governments typically avoid unpopular decisions, such as price reductions, during election periods.
According to him, the current administration would likely have acted differently if elections were imminent, claiming that cocoa farmers are being treated unfairly in a non-election year. He further alleged that prices could be increased later to win political support from farmers when elections approach.
Mr. Annoh-Dompreh stressed that cocoa farmers, who play a critical role in Ghana’s economy, deserve consistent and transparent pricing policies rather than what he described as politically influenced decisions.
The comments come amid growing concerns within the cocoa sector following a reduction in producer prices, which has sparked criticism from the Minority and some stakeholders.
The Minority Caucus says its ongoing tour of cocoa-growing regions is aimed at engaging farmers directly and assessing the impact of the price changes on their livelihoods, while also pushing for reforms to improve conditions in the sector.
Government has yet to officially respond to Mr. Annoh-Dompreh’s latest remarks, but the issue continues to generate debate over fairness, economic policy, and the welfare of cocoa farmers.
Nana Ekuah
Loco tv