The Western North Regional branch of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called on the eight National Democratic Congress (NDC) Members of Parliament representing constituencies in the region to apologise to cocoa farmers following the recent reduction in the producer price of cocoa.
In a statement signed by the Regional Secretary, Mr. Felix Foster Ackah, the party criticised what it described as the “deafening silence” of the NDC MPs on the matter. According to the NPP, cocoa farming remains the backbone of the Western North economy, and any policy decision affecting the crop has far-reaching consequences for thousands of households.
The statement stressed that cocoa production is more than just a livelihood for residents — it is the economic foundation of the region. As such, the party argued that a reduction in the farm gate price directly undermines the income, welfare and dignity of hardworking farmers and their families.
The NPP further expressed concern about ongoing discussions around reforms that could potentially weaken Ghana’s guaranteed pricing system. The party cautioned against any attempts to deregulate the cocoa sector without adequate safeguards, warning that such a move could expose farmers to the unpredictability of international market forces.
“Any move towards deregulation without strong protective measures would subject farmers to volatile global price fluctuations, placing their livelihoods at serious risk,” the statement emphasised.
The party accused the NDC MPs of failing to defend the interests of cocoa farmers at a critical moment and described their inaction as a betrayal of the trust reposed in them by constituents. It therefore demanded what it termed an “unqualified apology” from the MPs to the people of the Western North Region.
Beyond the call for an apology, the NPP urged the government to reconsider the new cocoa price and take steps to safeguard the guaranteed pricing model, which it said has historically provided stability and protection for farmers.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of cocoa farmers, the Western North NPP assured growers in the region and across the country that it would continue to champion policies aimed at protecting farmer incomes, stabilising cocoa prices and securing the long-term sustainability of the sector.
“The sweat of cocoa farmers sustains Ghana’s economy,” the statement concluded. “Their sacrifices must be met with policies that guarantee certainty, fairness and protection.”
