Unraveling the Cocoa Controversy: Minority Exposes Discrepancies in COCOBOD CEO ‘s Claims
In a dramatic twist of events, the Minority in Parliament has unearthed compelling evidence challenging the credibility of Joseph Boahen Aidoo, the Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, over his statements regarding Ghana’s 2023/24 cocoa forward sales. The controversy revolves around former President Mahama’s criticism of the NPP government’s farm-gate price for cocoa, sparking a heated exchange between the political figures.
After Mahama accused the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government of shortchanging cocoa farmers, COCOBOD CEO, Boahen Aidoo responded with an open letter, questioning the former President’s understanding of cocoa pricing and insisting that cocoa had been sold forward at international prices between $2,200 and $2,400 per ton.
However, the Minority has presented documents to Parliament, revealing that only 36.2% of the cocoa for the 2023/24 season was sold forward, contradicting Boahen Aidoo’s claim of a “greater percentage.” This revelation has prompted accusations of deliberate falsehoods, with the Minority demanding an apology from the COCOBOD CEO.
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The joint memorandum to Parliament further disclosed that the remaining 63.8% of cocoa output would be sold at spot prices, ranging between $3,600 and $4,000 per ton. This raises concerns about the potential financial loss for cocoa farmers, amounting to $542.3 million if sold at the minimum spot price. The Minority argues that COCOBOD CEO, Boahen Aidoo’s attempt to justify the pricing strategy of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government lacks merit and integrity.
The Minority emphasized that COCOBOD CEO, Boahen Aidoo owes President Mahama, cocoa farmers, and the entire nation an unqualified apology for what they deemed a baseless attack on the former President’s credibility. They pledged to engage with cocoa farmers nationwide to shed light on what they perceive as a gross injustice by the current government.
As the controversy unfolds, the spotlight remains on the integrity of Ghana’s cocoa pricing policies and the implications for the hardworking farmers who sustain the nation’s economy. The coming days are poised to be critical, as the Minority and the NDC Communications Bureau gear up for engagements aimed at uncovering the truth behind this contentious issue.
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