The Chief of Obengkrom in the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese Constituency of the Central Region, Nana Kassim Okyere Obeng, has strongly criticised John Dramani Mahama over the recent reduction in cocoa prices, accusing him of failing to honour commitments made to cocoa farmers.
The outspoken traditional leader made the remarks during a weekend tour by the Minority in Parliament, which engaged cocoa-growing communities to assess challenges confronting farmers across the sector.
Addressing the Minority delegation and residents at Obengkrom near Asuansi, Nana Kassim Okyere Obeng expressed deep frustration over what he described as deteriorating living conditions among cocoa farmers.
“For us, the farmers, we have realised that President John Dramani Mahama is a cheat. We have seen that he is someone who does not fulfil his promises,” the chief stated.
He further suggested that the President should relinquish power if he is unable to effectively manage the country’s affairs.
“At this point, if he cannot continue ruling the country properly, then he should step down for someone else to take over,” he added.
The chief also criticised the area’s Member of Parliament, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, accusing him of neglecting constituents after assuming office.
“Our MP, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, is also deceitful. Before he became an MP, we used to communicate frequently, but now when I send him messages, he does not even respond,” he alleged.
According to Nana Kassim Okyere Obeng, the decline in cocoa prices has had severe economic consequences for farmers in the area, forcing many to abandon cocoa cultivation in favour of more viable alternatives such as palm plantations.
“Today, many cocoa farmers are suffering because of the reduction in cocoa prices. A lot of farmers are cutting down their cocoa farms and turning to palm plantations because they can no longer survive,” he lamented.