Tuesday, 17 February

Protozoa slams COCOBOD's executive pay cut as inadequate in addressing cocoa farmers’ plight

Politics
Frank Asiedu Bekoe

The Member of Parliament for Suhum Constituency in the Eastern Region, Frank Asiedu Bekoe, popularly known as “Protozoa,” has taken a swipe at the government over its decision to implement an executive pay cut, describing the measure as hypocritical and inadequate in addressing the plight of cocoa farmers.

Speaking in an interview with Class 91.3 FM, the lawmaker questioned the effectiveness of the proposed salary reductions for government appointees, arguing that the move would not raise sufficient funds to compensate for the recent cut in cocoa prices.

According to Mr. Asiedu Bekoe, the financial gains expected from the executive pay reduction are minimal when weighed against the significant losses cocoa farmers are likely to suffer following the price adjustment.

He cautioned that portraying the pay cut as a major intervention could create a false impression that enough is being done to support farmers.

The Suhum MP urged the government to pursue more sustainable and impactful funding strategies to cushion cocoa producers from economic hardship.

He emphasised that cocoa farmers remain central to Ghana’s agricultural economy and deserve policies that meaningfully safeguard their livelihoods.

He further called on the government to prioritise the welfare of farmers by exploring alternative revenue streams and reallocating resources where necessary to ensure timely and adequate payments to cocoa producers.

 

His comments come amid growing national debate over cocoa pricing and public expenditure, with various stakeholders demanding decisive action to protect farmers while maintaining fiscal discipline.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Gordon Desmond Sackitey