COCOA FARMERS ARE CRYING” — PAUL YANDOH BLASTS ECONOMIC HARDSHIP, GOVERNMENT PRIORITIES ROADSIDE ART PROJECTS OVER COCOA FARMERS

Ashanti Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Paul Yandoh, has criticised government economic and infrastructure priorities during a phone-in interview on the ICAD TV morning show Ghana Nti Today, hosted by Nana Nhyiraba Kwabena Asirifi. Phone-in Interview Sparks Heated Remarks During the live programme, Paul Yandoh was called on phone to respond to national issues, including fuel price increases, cocoa pricing, and public spending priorities. He stated that “Ghanaians are crying because things are hard,” pointing to rising fuel costs and the general cost of living as major concerns affecting households across the country. Cocoa Farmers and Pricing Concerns Yandoh also raised strong concerns about cocoa pricing policies, arguing that farmers are under pressure due to market conditions. He claimed that: Cocoa farmers in areas such as Adansi and Asokwa are struggling Some farmers are unhappy with current purchasing arrangements Farmers have limited options and are required to sell through official channels He further referenced past political promises made during opposition campaigns regarding cocoa prices, while arguing that current realities are different from expectations. Debate Over Government Spending Priorities The NPP communicator also questioned government spending, particularly plans involving presidential aircraft. He argued that: The current aircraft is still functional after years of service Funds for new aircraft could be redirected toward cocoa farmers, nurses, and teachers Government should prioritise economic hardship over luxury spending Teachers, Nurses, and Public Sector Issues He further claimed that teachers and nurses are facing delays or challenges in payments, calling for government to prioritise essential workers in national budgeting decisions. Roads, Safety, and Infrastructure Criticism Yandoh also criticised road conditions in the Ashanti Region, describing several areas as unsafe due to poor infrastructure and accidents. He stated that: Some road projects were awarded but remain incomplete Poor roads are contributing to frequent accidents Certain areas remain undeveloped or “bushy” He also raised concerns about CCTV and monitoring systems, suggesting that security infrastructure is not functioning effectively in some areas. Controversy Over Roadside Art Project He also commented on the Ashanti Regional street art and mural project linked to Dr Frank Amoakohene. Yandoh criticised the initiative, arguing that: Students painting along busy roads could pose safety risks Drivers may be distracted while observing the artwork Government attention should focus more on infrastructure than decoration