The Upper East Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ayinbisa, has criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for what he describes as a series of U-turns on key promises made before assuming power.
In an interview on A1 Radio, Mr. Ayinbisa expressed disappointment over the NDC’s decision to maintain the current cocoa producer price, despite earlier claims that the NPP administration was shortchanging cocoa farmers. He noted that the NDC had previously promised to significantly increase the price, citing favorable international cocoa market conditions and exchange rates. The recent announcement to maintain the existing rate, he argued, constitutes a betrayal of farmers’ expectations.
“The NDC told us in opposition that when they came to power, they were going to increase the producer price of cocoa. They said we were cheating the cocoa farmer. Looking at the exchange rate, looking at the cocoa price abroad, we should have been paying them around 9,000. And that when they came, they were going to increase it. This morning and last night, what did we hear? They are maintaining the price. So why have you deceived the farmer?”
Mr. Ayinbisa also pointed out that under the NPP, the producer price of cocoa was adjusted multiple times in 2024 alone. He questioned the NDC’s current stance, labeling it a clear departure from their previous criticisms of the NPP’s handling of the cocoa sector.
He further accused the NDC of shifting its position on economic challenges, particularly regarding the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. According to him, the NDC initially dismissed the war’s effect on Ghana’s economy but has now begun to acknowledge its consequences—echoing what the NPP had long maintained.
On the topic of education, Mr. Ayinbisa referenced earlier promises by the NDC to end the double-track system within 90 days of taking office. He highlighted recent developments in which the Minister for Education reportedly informed heads of public senior high schools during a meeting in Sunyani that the double-track system will now be phased out by 2027—a timeline far beyond what was initially promised.
“Asiedu Nketia told us that 90 days after assuming power, they were going to fix free education and cancel the double-track system. Yesterday, the minister met with CHASS in Sunyani—all headmasters of public schools were present—and he said they will end the double-track system in 2027.”
He concluded by stating that the accumulation of such policy reversals and unfulfilled promises paints a picture of a government backtracking on its word, leaving many Ghanaians—especially key stakeholders like farmers and students—disappointed.
Source: A1Radioonline.com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
