Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has emphasized that while he provides oversight for the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), the responsibility for settling its substantial debt remains with the agency’s leadership.
Speaking on The Point of View on Channel One TV on Wednesday, March 12, Dr. Forson clarified his supervisory role, stressing that COCOBOD’s CEO, Randy Abbey, must take charge of the institution’s financial obligations.
“I oversee their operations, but that does not mean I should pay their debt. Randy Abbey must find the money and pay. Unfortunately, this is the situation the former administration left for him,” Dr. Forson stated.
His comments come amid growing concerns over COCOBOD’s financial struggles, particularly its GH¢32 billion debt, which has raised questions about the sustainability of Ghana’s cocoa sector and the government’s level of involvement.
COCOBOD, established in 1947, plays a crucial role in regulating Ghana’s cocoa industry, ensuring stable producer prices for farmers, and maintaining the country’s reputation as a leading producer of premium-quality cocoa.
Beyond addressing COCOBOD’s debt, Dr. Forson also dismissed claims of a government-imposed freeze on public sector employment, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to job creation and economic stability.
