Dr. Francis Baah, a former Executive Director of Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED) at Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), testified in an Accra High Court, stating that Chief Executives sign contracts on behalf of the board.
During cross-examination in the trial involving Dr. Stephen Opuni, a former Chief Executive of COCOBOD, and businessman Mr. Seidu Agongo, Dr. Baah affirmed that based on his experience, Chief Executives have the authority to sign contracts on behalf of the Board. He emphasized that they do so even without an in-depth technical expertise of the subject matter.
The trial, which includes charges of defrauding by false pretenses, causing financial loss to the state, money laundering, and corruption, saw both defendants pleading not guilty and on self-recognizance bail.
Dr. Baah confirmed that contracts are awarded by the Board to suppliers, indicating that individuals sign these contracts on behalf of COCOBOD. He also mentioned his lack of awareness regarding the Dr. Yaw Adu Ampomah Committee's report on the efficacy of lithovit fertilizer, a central issue in the trial.
Despite acknowledging lithovit as one of the preferred liquid fertilizers during his tenure, Dr. Baah clarified that his knowledge was based on farmers' feedback and field reports rather than direct evidence of the product. He also disputed claims regarding the retirement date of Dr. Ampomah, stating uncertainty about the timeline.
In response to questions about gaps in staffing and potential meetings between Dr. Ampomah and Dr. Opuni regarding the testing period for agrochemicals and fertilizers, Dr. Baah maintained limited awareness, emphasizing his attendance at meetings at the Chief Executive's discretion.
Regarding the submission of lithovit fertilizer for testing by CRIG, Dr. Baah stated his lack of knowledge, distancing himself from any involvement in the process.
The trial continues, shedding light on contractual practices within COCOBOD and raising questions about the handling of agricultural products and testing procedures under Dr. Opuni's leadership.