SUHUM MP CRITICISES SONA, DEMANDS APOLOGY TO COCOA FARMERS.

The Member of Parliament for Suhum, Frank Asiedu Bekoe, popularly known as Protozoa, has strongly criticised President John Dramani Mahama over portions of the 2025 State of the Nation Address (SONA). Speaking in a phone interview with Nana Nhyiraba Kwabena Asrifi on Ghana Nti Today on ICAD TV, the Suhum MP described parts of the SONA as misleading, particularly on cocoa pricing and job creation. Cocoa Price Concerns Hon. Asiedu Bekoe stated that the Eastern Region, especially Suhum, is dominated by cocoa farmers, making cocoa pricing a critical issue for his constituents. According to him, during the NPP administration, when world cocoa prices fell, producer prices were not reduced. However, he alleged that under the current administration, although cocoa prices rose to about $13,000 per tonne on the international market, government failed to take advantage of the peak prices. He claimed that when global prices later declined, the government justified reducing the local cocoa price by citing market forces. “The President had a choice not to reduce it. Cocoa farmers are suffering, and I was expecting an apology,” he said. He warned that frustration among cocoa farmers could push some toward illegal mining activities if conditions do not improve. Job Creation Dispute The MP also challenged claims made in the SONA regarding employment figures. He questioned the assertion that one million jobs were created between the first and second quarters of 2025. “In Suhum, there are no such jobs,” he insisted. He argued that official statistics indicate about 330,000 jobs, not one million. He further raised concerns about unpaid allowances for immigration officers, fire service personnel, and other security services. Economy and Fuel Prices On the economy, Hon. Asiedu Bekoe disputed claims that the strengthening of the cedi and falling fuel prices were government achievements. He attributed fuel price reductions to global market trends rather than domestic policy. Referring to global tensions such as the Russia–Ukraine conflict and tensions involving Iran, he said government cannot blame international events when convenient and take sole credit when prices fall. Corruption and Accountability The MP also questioned claims about recovering GH₵1.5 billion through anti-corruption operations, arguing that there is no clear evidence presented to substantiate the figure. “There is no evidence that through these operations they have retrieved GH₵1.5 billion,” he said. Final Remarks In conclusion, the Suhum MP reiterated that he believes the President should apologise to cocoa farmers over the price cuts and provide clearer evidence regarding economic and anti-corruption claims made during the SONA. He maintained that as representatives of the people, MPs will continue to demand transparency and policies that directly benefit their constituents.