Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has dismissed recent protests over cocoa producer prices as politically motivated, insisting that genuine cocoa farmers understand and support the government’s response to the global cocoa crisis.
The demonstrations erupted in parts of the Western North Region, including Sefwi Wiawso, Juaboso, and Bia West, following the reduction of cocoa producer prices from GH¢3,625 to GH¢2,587 per bag.
Protesters marched through principal streets, carrying placards accusing the government of deception and worsening economic hardship. Some of the messages were directed at President John Dramani Mahama, blaming his administration for the price cut.
Also read: NDC accepts Chief Justice’s ruling on EC petition — Abass Nurudeen
Farmers behind the protests argued that the reduction comes at a time of rising input and labour costs, warning that it threatens livelihoods, cocoa production, and local economies in cocoa-growing communities.
However, addressing Parliament on Friday, February 20, Mr. Ayariga rejected claims that the demonstrations reflected the true views of cocoa farmers.
“Just because you think that cocoa politics is what can help your party, I can assure you that the demonstrators… we know their real motivation,” he told members of the Minority.
The Majority Leader said cocoa farmers are aware of the global challenges affecting the industry and the financial difficulties facing the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), including debts inherited from the previous New Patriotic Party administration.
“You cannot give what you don’t have, even if you promised it,” he said, stressing that the government’s pricing decision was based on economic realities rather than political considerations.
According to Mr. Ayariga, while the situation remains challenging, farmers appreciate the government’s efforts to manage the crisis.
“The practical problem is there. The farmer appreciates it, and I can assure you that the farmer appreciates the solution proposed by government,” he stated.
The government has maintained that the revised cocoa price is a necessary response to global market fluctuations and inherited financial liabilities, even as pressure continues to mount from cocoa-growing communities demanding relief.
CNR