Ashanti Cocoa Farmers Reject Producer Price Cut, Threaten Picketing During Engagement with Minority Caucus

Aggrieved cocoa farmers in the Ashanti Region, particularly in the Bosome Freho Constituency, have opposed the government’s recent reduction of the cocoa producer price, describing the move as unfair and damaging to their livelihoods.

According to the farmers, the price cut by the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government demonstrates neglect of farmers. Some argued that the new price barely covers production expenses due to the rising cost of labour, fertilizer, and transportation.

They stated that the government had deceived them by acting contrary to its earlier promises.

The farmers expressed these sentiments at Danso, a cocoa-growing community in the Bosome Freho Constituency of the Ashanti Region, when the Minority Caucus in Parliament engaged cocoa farmers as part of its five-day cocoa farming tour of the region following the cocoa price cut.

They also hinted at plans to embark on picketing if the government fails to rescind the decision.

“We are appealing to the Minority Caucus in Parliament to help us engage the government to restore the old price since they represent us in Parliament,” the farmers stated.

The aggrieved farmers further urged the government to, as a matter of urgency, rescind the decision.

The Member of Parliament for Bosome Freho Constituency, Nana Asafo Adjei Ayeh, and the Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, who also serves as the Minority Chief Whip in Parliament, speaking on behalf of the Minority Caucus, expressed disappointment and described the decision as a significant blow to hardworking cocoa farmers across the country.

They further pledged the caucus’ commitment to supporting cocoa farmers during these difficult times.