The Centre for Democratic Movement (CDM) has strongly condemned the Government’s decision to reduce the cocoa producer price to GH¢2,587 per 64kg bag, describing the move as a betrayal of cocoa farmers and a violation of campaign promises. In a statement issued on Thursday, February 12, the group expressed what it termed “deep outrage, disappointment, and total condemnation” of the policy shift.

According to the CDM, the reduction represents “a monumental betrayal of public trust” and a “heartless assault on the dignity, livelihood, and survival of Ghana’s cocoa farmers.” 

The group argued that the decision comes at a time when farmers are already grappling with rising input costs, high labour expenses, and the impact of climate change on yields.

The statement recalled campaign assurances made during the 2024 general election by then presidential candidate John Dramani Mahama, who pledged to “restore dignity to the cocoa farmer by ensuring that the price of cocoa is increased substantially.” 

It further cited campaign claims that cocoa farmers would earn “not less than GH¢6,000 per bag” under an NDC government.

The CDM also referenced past statements by the current Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, who, while in opposition, reportedly described the then cocoa price as “unacceptable” and promised an upward review to reflect “the true value of the farmer’s labour and sacrifice.”

Describing the latest reduction as “one of the most shocking policy reversals in Ghana’s recent political history,” the group urged government to immediately reconsider the decision, warning that it risks eroding trust between the state and rural farming communities.