Minority considers petition to Otumfuo over Cocoa price cuts – Frank Annoh-Dompreh

The Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has signalled plans to petition the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, over the government’s decision to reduce cocoa prices.

His remarks follow a tour of cocoa-producing communities in the Ahafo Region, where he interacted with farmers who voiced deep frustration over the price cuts and persistent delays in payments, which they say are worsening their economic conditions.

During visits to Tano North, Asutifi North, and Asutifi South, Annoh-Dompreh cautioned that if the government led by John Dramani Mahama fails to respond to the concerns raised, the Minority may seek the intervention of the Asantehene to help resolve the issue.

“Without action, this administration will have shown that they do not truly care for cocoa farmers, despite the promises made during the 2024 election campaign,” he said.

Farmers described their situation as increasingly difficult, explaining that declining cocoa prices coupled with delayed payments are making it hard to meet basic needs such as household expenses and children’s school fees.

Annoh-Dompreh also criticised the government’s handling of the cocoa sector, warning that continued challenges could have wider implications for the national economy, given cocoa’s importance to Ghana’s export earnings.

He assured that the Minority will continue to mount pressure on the authorities to review the pricing decision, adding that further steps may be taken if necessary to ensure the concerns of cocoa farmers are adequately addressed.