OBENGKROM, CENTRAL REGION — The Minority Caucus in Parliament has intensified its nationwide campaign in support of cocoa farmers, taking its latest engagement to Obengkrom in the Ajumako Enyan Essiam Constituency amid growing frustration over cocoa prices and delayed payments.

Led by Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, the delegation met cocoa farmers and traditional leaders who expressed concern over worsening hardship in the cocoa sector.

Several farmers accused the government of failing to fulfil promises made to cocoa producers ahead of the 2024 general elections, saying lower producer prices and delayed payments have negatively affected their livelihoods and ability to care for their families.

An emotional moment emerged when a woman farmer disclosed that she had used President John Dramani Mahama’s name to secure loans in anticipation of improved cocoa prices and better living conditions.

Traditional leaders also criticised the handling of the cocoa sector, warning that many farmers were losing confidence in government interventions despite cocoa remaining a major pillar of local economies.

Addressing the gathering, John Ntim Fordjour stressed that cocoa farmers deserve practical support and fair treatment rather than political rhetoric.

Meanwhile, Isaac Yaw Opoku drew strong reactions after threatening to stage a naked protest if cocoa producer prices are reduced again.

Minority Leader Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin defended the record of the New Patriotic Party, saying previous NPP administrations introduced several social intervention programmes aimed at improving the welfare of ordinary Ghanaians, including cocoa farmers.

He assured farmers that the Minority would continue championing their concerns both in Parliament and across the country until effective solutions are implemented.

The engagement forms part of the Minority’s broader nationwide tour of cocoa-growing communities as debate over cocoa pricing and sector reforms continues across Ghana.