Ahead of the State of the Nation Address (SoNA), some Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) have called on President John D. Mahama to reconsider the recent decision to reduce cocoa prices and to urgently address the growing youth unemployment crisis.

The MP for Afigya Kwabre South, Damata Ama Appianimaa Salam, expressed strong concern over the cocoa price reduction.

She stated in an interview that she would be extremely surprised if the President fails to rescind the decision, especially in the wake of widespread public outcry.

According to her, maintaining or restoring the previous cocoa price would bring relief to farmers who are already facing economic challenges.

Meanwhile, the MP for Juabeng, Francis Kwabena Berepong Owusu-Akyaw, emphasised the need for the President to prioritize youth employment in his address. His comments follow a tragic incident involving the collapse of a galamsey pit, which reportedly trapped several young men.

He argued that the incident underscores the urgent need for job creation, noting that if sustainable employment opportunities were available, the affected youth might not have resorted to illegal mining activities.

He further urged the President to at least maintain the previous cocoa price if an increase is not feasible, saying such a move would help put smiles on the faces of cocoa farmers across the country.

The Minority MPs say they expect the President to use the upcoming address to respond decisively to these pressing national concerns.