The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has defended his caucus’ call for a review of the producer price of cocoa, citing the historical example of Ghanaian statesman J.B. Danquah.

Speaking at the Institute of Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) Lecture Series on Monday, March 2, Mr Afenyo-Markin argued that Danquah’s legal advocacy for cocoa farmers set a precedent for ensuring fair compensation to producers.

He recalled that Danquah, before entering politics, used his legal expertise to fight for cocoa farmers, earning him widespread respect and the title Akuafo Kanea — “lamp of farmers” — from the people of his era.

“Before he was a politician, J.B. Danquah was a lawyer. One of his most notable contributions was advocating in the courts, case by case, to ensure cocoa farmers received fair pricing. This earned him the name Akuafo Kanea, the lamp of farmers,” Mr Afenyo-Markin said.

He added that the minority MPs remain committed to using all available parliamentary tools to champion the interests of cocoa producers today, continuing the legacy of service that Danquah exemplified.

“This was a man who devoted every resource at his disposal in the service of his people. Similarly, we are determined to explore every avenue to support cocoa farmers and protect their livelihoods,” he emphasised.