Dr Isaac Yaw Opoku, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs Committee, has warned the government against reducing cocoa prices any further, vowing that he and the minority caucus would stage a bold protest if such a move is taken.
Speaking to cocoa farmers in Kunsu, Ahafo Ano South West District, the Offinso South MP described the first-ever price cut in Ghana’s cocoa history as a misstep that should not be seen as a sign of farmers’ weakness.
“Because this is the first-ever price cut in Ghana’s history, some think we are toothless and are now planning to reduce it further,” Dr Yaw Opoku said. “I will strip naked and, together with the minority, protest in ‘adagya mu’ and march to the Presidency to demand what is right for our farmers.”
His remarks come amid a five-day tour by the minority caucus in the Ashanti Region, during which lawmakers are engaging directly with cocoa farmers on pricing concerns and policy matters.
Dr Yaw Opoku criticised the government’s rationale for the initial price cut, particularly claims that the cedi’s appreciation justified the reduction. He highlighted that Ghana earned around $3.9 billion USD in cocoa revenue in 2025—equivalent to roughly GH₵39 billion at current exchange rates.
“They continue to claim that the dollar’s value has decreased. Yet the Governor of the Bank of Ghana confirms that the government generated $3.9 billion USD from cocoa sales,” he said. “If the government has access to such substantial revenue but still owes cocoa farmers GH₵11 billion, why can’t the payments be made?”
The MP also reminded the NDC administration of unfulfilled promises to cocoa farmers, including a cocoa pension scheme and the “one cocoa farm, one polytank” initiative, which have yet to be implemented.
The warning from the minority caucus adds to growing tensions in Ghana’s cocoa sector, where farmers continue to voice concerns over pricing policies, delayed payments, and support programs.