COCOA FARMERS CRY FOUL – MONTHS WITHOUT PAYMENT, MP SPEAKS OUT.

Cocoa farmers have held a press conference to protest what they describe as neglect by the government and the Ghana Cocoa Board. Farmers report selling their cocoa but waiting three to four months without payment, calling the situation unprecedented and unacceptable. The delays are blamed on poor sector management, while authorities point to debts, forward sales, and spot sales accumulated over the years. Randy Abbey noted that spot sales continued even after the current government took office, further straining finances. Hon. Dr. Isaac Opoku, MP for Offinso South, weighed in during an interview on ICAD TV Morning Show, Ghana Nti, urging the government and the Cocoa Board to act swiftly. He emphasized that cocoa is a backbone of Ghana’s economy, and timely payments are crucial to sustaining farmers’ livelihoods and the sector’s stability. Part Two: Political Tensions, Policy Concerns, and Farmers’ Financial Struggles Ahead of upcoming elections, cocoa farmers and concerned citizens are calling on the NDC to address delayed payments seriously, demanding transparency, independent investigations, and an end to election bribery and vote-buying. The proposed 24-hour economy, currently before Parliament, has also raised concerns. Critics argue the policy lacks clarity, particularly on how farmers and rural workers would participate in a three-shift system. Observers note that without private sector involvement, the plan may fail to benefit ordinary citizens. Meanwhile, the NPP has resolved internal disputes following its primaries, with all candidates declaring support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Supporters believe this unity strengthens the party ahead of the 2028 elections, though discussions of a possible cocoa price reduction have sparked fears among farmers. Financial hardship continues to plague cocoa communities, with some families reporting that delayed payments prevented them from celebrating Christmas. Hon. Dr. Isaac Opoku stressed on ICAD TV Morning Show, Ghana Nti, that swift government action, fair compensation, and policy clarity are urgently needed to protect farmers and restore trust in the sector. HON.DR.ISAAC OPOKU OFFINSU SOUTH MP