Report By: Ishmael Barfi
Accra, Ghana – The National Chairman of the People’s National Convention (PNC), Samson Asaki Awingobit, has called for a national dialogue on the cocoa sector, saying the issue has become too politicized.
In an interview with the media at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) One Year Assessment of President Mahama in Office Dialoque held in Accra, Awingobit expressed disappointment that the majority side of the house was not present to engage in discussions on the matter.
He was of the view that, there was the need for the majority side of parliament to be present at the dialogue to listen to some of the findings since it centered on the one year governance of President Mahama though he does not know why the majority caucus was absent.
He suggested a two or three-day cocoa summit where all stakeholders, including political actors, can come together to discuss the way forward.
“I think we should call for a national dialogue on this issue, because it seems that cocoa has become a political issue rather than a national conversation,” Awingobit said.
The CDD’s assessment report highlighted President Mahama’s administration achievements, including macroeconomic stabilization, fiscal order restoration, and social sector gains. However, it also noted concerns about anti-corruption efforts, institutional weaknesses, and environmental degradation.
Awingobit also praised the management of the Cocoa Board for taking steps to cut costs, saying it shows leadership. “The current management of the Cocoa Board has shown leadership by cutting their own allowances, saying if the cocoa farmers are not happy, they cannot continue to take such salaries and conditions,” he said.
However, he criticized the communication strategy of the Cocoa Board, saying they need a seasoned communication person to handle issues. “The young man there was trying to do his best, but he couldn’t handle the issue…Cocoa Board really needs a seasoned communication person to head that department,” he said.
Awingobit also took a swipe at the previous government, saying they were more interested in making money from loans than serving the country.
The PNC Chairman’s call for a national dialogue on the cocoa sector has been welcomed by many, who believe it’s time for Ghanaians to come together to find solutions to the challenges facing the sector.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
