Minority’s narrative is unfounded – COCOBOD fires back over controversial Cocoa Bill

The Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD) has dismissed criticism from the Minority in Parliament regarding the newly passed cocoa legislation, labeling the opposition's stance as "unfounded." Jerome Kwame Sam, COCOBOD's Head of Public Affairs, stated that the legislation underwent thorough examination before being approved by Parliament.

Sam argued that the new law is designed to safeguard the interests of cocoa farmers and does not pose any risks to them. He expressed confusion over the minority's persistent opposition to the bill, stating that their concerns are unfounded. Sam acknowledged the minority's right to express their opinions, as this is protected by the constitution.

However, he maintained that a thorough reading of the legislation reveals that it is aimed at protecting cocoa farmers and includes reforms absent in previous laws governing the sector. Sam rejected allegations that the legislation passed without proper parliamentary scrutiny, explaining that COCOBOD collaborated with experts in drafting the bill and engaged with Parliament's legislative committee for review.

He emphasized that the law underwent clause-by-clause examination, with necessary amendments proposed by Parliament's lawyers. An example he provided was the modification of a provision concerning mining licenses, which was removed due to conflicts with constitutional provisions and the Minerals and Mining Act. Sam argued that these changes highlighted the importance of Parliament's scrutiny of the legislation.

He rejected claims that Parliament lacked adequate time to examine the bill, asserting that these assertions undermine the credibility of the opposition's narrative.