After eight years of a high-profile legal battle, former Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, Dr. Stephen Kwabena Opuni, has emerged vindicated and spiritually strengthened.

Marking his acquittal with gratitude, Dr. Opuni joined the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Emmanuel Congregation at Dormaa-Babianeha in the Bono Region to celebrate Easter Sunday and give thanks to God for what he described as a divine victory.

Dr. Opuni had faced allegations of financial malfeasance during his tenure at COCOBOD, but the court ruled in his favour, citing the state’s failure to prove its case.

The ruling brought an end to a legal ordeal that began in 2017.

Speaking during the service in his hometown, Dr. Opuni expressed heartfelt appreciation to God and the community that supported him throughout the challenging years.

He declared a renewed commitment to both his faith and public service, saying he is determined to use this new chapter of his life to contribute meaningfully to society.

True to his word, Dr. Opuni has already initiated several community development projects, particularly in education.

He announced plans to construct new school buildings in the Bono Region, including one at the school once attended by his late mother in Dormaa Ahenkro — a project he says is both a tribute to her memory and a reflection of his dedication to education and legacy building.

Dr. Opuni also used the occasion to caution against the dangers of slander and false accusations, urging Ghanaians to avoid actions that can unjustly destroy lives and reputations.

Reflecting on his time as COCOBOD CEO under the John Mahama administration, Dr. Opuni compared the performance of the cocoa sector during his tenure to its current state under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

He asserted that the sector is now in decline and encouraged citizens to independently assess and draw their conclusions about its current condition.

With his legal battles behind him and his faith renewed, Dr. Opuni says he is looking forward to a future of service, both to God and to the people of Ghana.