Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has taken a swipe at the Minority in Parliament over their recent criticism of government policies in the cocoa sector, urging them to “credit us with intelligence” when discussing the challenges facing the industry.
His comments follow claims by the Minority caucus that government mismanagement has worsened conditions in the cocoa sector, particularly with regard to producer pricing and the financial health of the Ghana Cocoa Board. The caucus argued that recent decisions have negatively impacted farmers and could further destabilize the industry if not addressed urgently.
Reacting to these assertions, Kpebu maintained that the issues confronting the cocoa sector are far more complex than the Minority suggests. According to him, it is misleading to attribute the sector’s struggles solely to government policy without acknowledging global economic realities. He pointed to factors such as fluctuating international cocoa prices, currency depreciation, and broader macroeconomic pressures that have affected cocoa-producing countries across West Africa.
Kpebu stressed that public commentary on such a critical national industry should be grounded in facts and balanced analysis rather than partisan rhetoric. He argued that Ghanaians are capable of understanding the broader economic context and should not be treated as though they cannot appreciate the complexities involved.
The debate over the cocoa sector has intensified in recent weeks, with the Minority demanding improved pricing mechanisms and stronger financial oversight to safeguard farmers’ livelihoods. They have also called for greater transparency in the operations of the cocoa regulator.
Kpebu, however, urged political actors to focus on constructive engagement instead of framing the issue purely as a failure of leadership. He emphasized that safeguarding Ghana’s cocoa industry requires collaboration, sober reflection, and policies that respond to both domestic and global economic realities.
As discussions continue, the cocoa sector remains a central pillar of Ghana’s economy, making the ongoing debate one of national importance for farmers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders alike.
