Minority leader vows to hold NDC accountable on cocoa farmer payments

The Minority Leader, Hon. Alexander Kwamena Afenyo‑Markin (NPP), has pledged to ensure that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) honours its financial obligations to cocoa farmers, stressing that hardworking producers must be paid what is rightfully due to them.

Speaking in Parliament, Hon. Afenyo‑Markin said delays in payments and outstanding obligations to farmers undermine livelihoods and threaten confidence in the cocoa sector,a critical backbone of Ghana’s economy.

He argued that cocoa farmers deserve timely and full payment for their produce, and that government must act decisively to uphold their welfare.

“We will not relent until cocoa farmers are paid what is rightfully theirs,” he declared, highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness in government dealings with agricultural stakeholders.

His remarks come amid complaints from cocoa farmers’ groups about delayed disbursements and partial settlements, which they say have negatively affected their ability to support families, invest in farm improvements, and sustain production.

The Minority Leader said that parliamentary oversight and advocacy will be strengthened to compel the Majority, led by Hon. Mahama Ayariga (NDC), to address these payment issues promptly. He emphasised that the cocoa sector’s health is a national priority that transcends partisan lines and requires urgent action.

The call for accountability underscores growing pressure on government to prioritise cocoa farmers’ interests and ensure that payments are made efficiently and equitably.