Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has described the National Cathedral project initiated under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as a worthwhile idea that was poorly executed.
Mr Ayariga made the comments when he appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, for his ministerial vetting.
He said he had no fundamental objection to the establishment of a national place of worship for Christians, arguing that religion remains an important part of Ghanaian society despite the country’s constitutional status as a secular state.
“I believe that Ghanaians are deeply religious even though constitutionally, we are regarded as a secular state. I believe that having cathedrals, church buildings, mosques, and other worshipping centres are great and exciting things that enable the practice of religions,” he said.
Mr Ayariga said the concept of a National Cathedral was therefore not problematic in itself.
“And so in my opinion, I don’t think there is anything wrong with having a national cathedral for the Christians of the country,” he added.
However, he expressed reservations about the manner in which the project was carried out, particularly the choice of location.
“And if you are talking about the National Cathedral that Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo initiated when he was president, I don’t see anything wrong with it. I think it was a good idea that was badly executed. I personally had issues with the location,” he explained.
His comments come amid ongoing public debate over the project, including questions surrounding its implementation, funding and location.
Mr Ayariga’s position indicates that while he supports the broader idea of a national cathedral, he believes significant shortcomings in its execution have affected the project.
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