Pay Cocoa Farmers, Not Party Execs –Minority

The Minority in Parliament has criticised the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), accusing it of placing political interests ahead of the welfare of cocoa farmers at a time when the sector is facing significant challenges.

The criticism was led by the Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, who questioned government spending priorities as farmers across the country grapple with financial difficulties.

According to the Minority, the government is allegedly paying about GH¢20,000 each month to party executives in all 275 constituencies, amounting to roughly GH¢5.5 million monthly, while many cocoa farmers have reportedly not been paid for produce supplied since November 2025.

The allegation, said to be based on remarks attributed to Mustapha Gbande, Deputy Director of Operations at the Presidency, has sparked public debate over the allocation of state resources. The Minority argues that such funds could be redirected to ease the financial strain on cocoa farmers and purchasing clerks.

These concerns come amid a broader downturn in the cocoa sector during the 2025/2026 season. Farmers are contending with delayed payments, a drop in producer prices from GH¢3,625 to GH¢2,587 per bag, and rising costs of inputs such as fertiliser, labour and transportation.

The situation has been worsened by structural adjustments within the industry, including a shift from forward sales to spot sales, which stakeholders say has contributed to financial uncertainty.

Some Minority members, including Michael Okyere Baafi, have also alleged possible misapplication of funds intended for the cocoa sector, calling for greater transparency and accountability.

The opposition maintains that cocoa farmers, who play a vital role in the country’s agricultural economy, should not suffer due to policy shortcomings or fiscal constraints.

They insist that reallocating even part of the alleged expenditure on party activities could provide much-needed relief to farmers.

As part of its response, the Minority says it will continue its advocacy campaign under the slogan “Pay Farmers, Not Party Executives,” with plans to intensify pressure both in Parliament and through engagements with cocoa-growing communities nationwide.

They emphasise that prompt payment, fair pricing and renewed focus on the cocoa sector are critical to restoring stability and safeguarding livelihoods.

 

 

 

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