Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has criticised the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over what he describes as attempts to politicise the ongoing challenges in Ghana’s cocoa sector.

Mr. Koomson argued that it is unfair for the NPP to mount pressure on the government over the current difficulties, insisting that the problems originated under the previous administration before it left office.

The crisis centres on the financial state of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), which analysts say is facing its most precarious financial situation in nearly 80 years.

Total debts are estimated at GHS32.91 billion, sparking public debate over accountability and allegations of financial mismanagement against officials who previously oversaw the sector.

As of February 2026, COCOBOD is reportedly grappling with a negative equity of about GHS3.8 billion, meaning its liabilities exceed its assets.

The situation has been further compounded by the board’s inability to meet forward contract obligations, resulting in losses exceeding $1 billion.

Reacting to Cabinet’s directive ordering a forensic audit into COCOBOD’s operations between 2017 and 2024, Mr. Koomson welcomed the move, describing it as a necessary step toward ensuring accountability.

Speaking on Ahotor FM on Saturday, February 14, he said such action should have been taken earlier to identify and prosecute those responsible for the sector’s financial woes.

He also expressed support for measures announced by the government to stabilise the cocoa sector, including a 28.6 percent reduction in the producer price of cocoa aimed at managing the financial strain.

Additionally, he described proposals to adopt a more sustainable financing model — moving away from the traditional syndicated loan arrangements — as a step in the right direction.

Mr. Koomson maintained that he would not blame the current administration for the crisis, insisting that the challenges were inherited.

However, he noted that delays in holding alleged perpetrators accountable have allowed some individuals to continue publicly criticising and exerting pressure on authorities.

He emphasised that decisive action and transparency will be critical in restoring confidence in the cocoa sector, which remains a key pillar of Ghana’s economy.