Speaking during a meeting with the Christian Council at the Presidency on Tuesday, November 18, Mr. Mahama said the absence of public engagement contributed significantly to the controversy surrounding the project.

“I believe in building an interdenominational place of worship, but it must be done in consultation with all of us. We must all decide how we want to do it, what the scope should be, and how much it should cost,” he told the clergy.

He stressed that transparent dialogue would have fostered national ownership and prevented the mistrust that later characterised discussions about the cathedral.

Reaffirming his support for faith-based institutions, Mr. Mahama noted that he has personally facilitated the construction of 10 rural temples for the Assemblies of God Church, demonstrating his commitment to strengthening religious infrastructure.

The National Cathedral project—announced under former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo—was intended to serve as a national Christian worship centre and civic monument. Initially projected to cost around US$100 million, the development stalled amid rising costs, public criticism, and calls for greater accountability.

By late 2024, the project came under intense scrutiny, with CHRAJ calling for a forensic audit and possible prosecution. Although the Board cited a Deloitte audit showing no adverse findings up to December 2020, the future of the project remains uncertain pending the resolution of governance concerns.

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The clarification comes in response to a 2024 Supreme Court suit filed by private citizen Jonathan Amable, who is challenging what he describes as unconstitutional financial practices by the state.

Mr. Amable is asking the Court to declare that funding for the National Cathedral from the Consolidated Fund, without prior approval from the Speaker of Parliament and the Chairperson of the Council of State, breaches Article 179(11) of the Constitution.

He is also seeking an order compelling the state to refund all monies allegedly withdrawn unconstitutionally for the project.

The plaintiff further challenges the constitutionality of a $10 billion COVID-19 Relief Bond transaction between the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Ghana, arguing that it contravenes Article 181(4), which governs public borrowing.

In its response, the Attorney-General, Dr. Dominic Ayine, maintained that all payments toward the National Cathedral were lawful and drawn from the Contingency Fund, categorised under “Other Government Obligations,” not from the Contingency Fund as alleged.

“The National Cathedral is 100% owned by the State,” the Attorney-General’s statement emphasized, noting that the project is a state-owned company limited by guarantee under the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, as confirmed in a legal opinion issued on January 6, 2022.

The Department added that the project’s financing and policy direction have been transparently outlined in annual budget statements since 2018, with the government pledging to provide land, a secretariat, and seed money, while expecting most funding to come from private and non-public sources.

According to the A-G, Parliament also granted policy approval for the project as part of the national budget following detailed deliberations.

Regarding the COVID-19 Relief Bond, the Attorney-General argued that the agreement between the Finance Ministry and the Bank of Ghana was within lawful fiscal management measures adopted to cushion the economy during the pandemic.

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Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Mr. Kotoko said he would be delighted to see the former president face justice for what he described as an organised scheme disguised as a religious project.

“Let me be frank with you, if wishes were horses, I would be happy to see even former president Nana Addo Dankwah Akufo-Addo being hauled to court to answer for that hole he dug, which seems to be an organised crime unit that he set up to siphon or launder state funds,” he fumed.

Mr. Kotoko compared Akufo-Addo’s actions to those of Côte d’Ivoire’s former Minister, Boahen, who, according to him, built a place of worship using private funds—unlike Ghana’s former president, who “even scammed God.”

“Our neighbour in Côte d’Ivoire, Boahen, when he was in his room and had a prayer with his God that he wanted to build for him a place of worship, he did that with private funds. Then President Akufo-Addo, when in opposition, said he was going to build—he has promised God; he even promised God to do that, which meant it was a promise to be fulfilled in the first four years because you were not assured of your second term. And this is somebody who could even scam God.”

The visibly angry Forestry Commission executive said he was disappointed in the moral conduct of the nation’s elderly leaders.

“I am a young person, and I frown so much on elderly people not holding in fidelity the virtues that we thought they were supposed to hand over to us,” he lamented.

According to him, the National Cathedral project was nothing but “another avenue to scam the entire nation,” using revered men of God as cover for corruption.

“This whole National Cathedral thing was another avenue to just scam the entire nation, using some of the very notable religious leaders, and it’s been exposed in most of their faces because they spoke so well of this, they were so convinced.

“Some of them said not a pesewa of public funds will be used, and one of the people I perceived to be criminal let me say the Finance Minister is at large over there,” he said.

He cited inconsistencies between official claims and the actual state of work at the construction site.

“At the time he read the budget, he told us rehabilitation work was 90%. A toddler who visits that place will tell you not even 5% has been done,” he added.

Mr. Kotoko accused the former president of exploiting Ghanaians’ religious devotion to avoid accountability.

“They are walking scot-free, and when you talk of this National Cathedral, President Nana Addo only used our vulnerability as a people—that in anything that we mention God, we are careful how we react, and we are careful how we criticise. So he used God to scam all of us.”

He called for swift investigations and possible prosecution, saying it would serve as a deterrent to future leaders.

Source: Myjoyonline

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According to its 2025 half-year report released on Tuesday, August 19, the OSP is probing irregularities surrounding the procurement of contractors and materials, as well as payments made by former Finance Minister Kenneth Nana Yaw Ofori-Atta, the National Cathedral Secretariat, and other entities involved in the Cathedral’s construction.

The report further revealed that the OSP is investigating contractual arrangements between TOR and Tema Energy and Processing Limited, as well as the management of TOR between 2020 and 2024.

Another major probe involves the alleged sale of teaching appointment letters and the laundering of proceeds from the unlawful scheme.

Additionally, the OSP is scrutinising the operations of the National Commission on Culture between 2020 and 2024, focusing on alleged corruption and extortion tied to staff salaries and arrears.

In the report’s preface, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng emphasised that the fight against corruption must go beyond punitive measures to include prevention, asset recovery, and systemic reforms.

He noted that his office is pairing enforcement with robust prevention strategies, leveraging Ghana’s plea bargaining regime to secure convictions and recover assets.

Mr. Agyebeng further underscored the need to modernise Ghana’s anti-corruption framework, proposing a dedicated constitutional chapter on corruption, lifestyle audits, enhanced asset declaration, and a reverse onus presumption of corruption.

He disclosed that the OSP is also spearheading efforts toward the passage of a Corrupt Practices Act and a Conduct of Public Officers Act while serving as a lead partner in implementing the new National Ethics and Anti-Corruption Strategy.

“The task ahead remains formidable, but our resolve to perform is even stronger,” he stated.

Source: AdomOnline

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Speaking on Citi FM on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu described such claims as “inaccurate and misleading.”

“Contrary to claims that emerged last week, the government has not decided to turn the site into a cultural convention centre; nothing of the sort has happened,” he clarified.

His response comes amid speculation that the government was rebranding the controversial project as part of its 24-hour economy initiative for the culture, creative arts, and tourism sectors, known as ‘SHOW24’.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that a continental organisation currently renting space in Accra had submitted an unsolicited proposal to establish its headquarters on the site. The proposal included plans to build a cultural and convention centre for Ghana.

However, he stressed that the government has neither accepted nor deliberated on the proposal.

“It is merely an unsolicited proposal. The government has not accepted it or even considered it,” he said.

He also reiterated President John Dramani Mahama’s position on the National Cathedral, affirming that no public funds would be used to complete the project.

“I can state with authority that as long as President Mahama remains president, not even a pesewa of taxpayers’ money will be spent on this National Cathedral project,” Kwakye Ofosu emphasised.

He noted that the future of the site would only be determined after a full forensic audit.

“What happens to the site will be decided once we have all the facts. But I can assure Ghanaians no public funds will go into the cathedral,” he said.

Source: Adomonline.com

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Titus-Glover said that although President Akufo-Addo’s vision to build a national cathedral was commendable, questions surrounding the handling of funds must be addressed.

“There are places in this country without schools. If President Akufo-Addo had the vision to build a cathedral in God’s name, it was in the right direction. But if the way the funds were managed is questionable, then those responsible must provide answers,” he stated.

He added, “The Board of Trustees cannot be wrongly accused if they were not in charge of the funds. We are in a democracy, so everyone should be given a fair opportunity to account for their role.”

His remarks follow an independent audit by Deloitte and Touche, which revealed that the project had cost the state about $97 million (GH¢339 million) by December 2023.

The 76-page report highlighted irregular financial practices, procurement breaches, and questionable payments.

Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline

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His comments follow recent statements by Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who clarified that President John Mahama has not made any such decision, and that no official approval has been given for a change in the project’s purpose.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, who is also the Member of Parliament for Abura Asebu Kwamankese, explained that while a proposal had been submitted to the 24-hour Secretariat suggesting a new use for the land, it remains under consideration and has not been endorsed by the President.

But in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, Mr. Kodua dismissed the explanation, accusing the government of engaging in propaganda.

“It is not true. The minister has embarked on propaganda and has brought it into government. After assuming power, they have realised that the National Cathedral is a good thing and do not know what to do and have decided to convert it into National Cultural Convention Centre,” he claimed.

“Is it for Akan Drama or Efiewura? What exactly is the purpose of this Convention Centre?” he quizzed, referencing popular local TV series and cultural productions.

Meanwhile, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu has insisted that the future of the site will be determined only after a full forensic audit into the National Cathedral project and the operations of the now-dissolved Secretariat.

The project, once touted as a national symbol of faith and unity, has come under intense public scrutiny over alleged financial irregularities.

At a recent media briefing, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu shared highlights from an audit by Deloitte and Touche, which uncovered multiple cases of financial mismanagement, including procurement breaches, undocumented spending, and irregular payments.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, NPP General Secretary Justin Frimpong Kodua called on the government to release the complete document to allow Ghanaians to examine its findings.

The audit, which spans the period from December 31, 2021, to December 31, 2023, uncovered that total payments and commitments on the project have reached $97 million—significantly more than earlier disclosed. Of this amount, $39 million remains outstanding to the contractor, despite the project being halted.

The report details consistent breaches of due process, citing unexplained payments, discrepancies in contract values, and weak internal controls—signs of what it describes as mismanagement at the highest levels. Additionally, the audit indicates that the contract continues to accumulate costs daily, further burdening the public purse.

Mr. Kodua accused the Mahama-led administration of deliberately withholding the full report, which he claims would allow the Board of Trustees to fairly respond to its contents.

“In opposition, the NDC bastardised the National Cathedral even though good intentions should have guided them. It was in the wake of the criticisms that the Board of Trustees decided to allow Deloitte to conduct an audit.

“But do you think if there was any wrongdoing, they would have availed themselves for probity and accountability? Now the report that exonerates the board is in, and they are hiding and publishing portions,” he asserted.

Meanwhile, at a press briefing last Friday, Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu explained that although the Deloitte report reveals serious lapses, it does not cover the entire financial records of the secretariat.

He announced that the Auditor-General has been directed to conduct a full forensic audit to identify any further irregularities.

Additionally, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Dr. Dominic Ayine has begun legal steps to terminate the National Cathedral contract.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Nana Yaa Jantuah described the project as a “scam against God” and questioned the rationale behind some of its features.

“You said you were building for God, and you scammed Him. If the NPP was able to scam God Himself, it means they are not afraid of anything,” she said.

She criticised plans for a 250-seater restaurant and a Bible museum within the project, suggesting the funds could have been better spent on schools and other critical infrastructure.

“The money that has gone into this is blood money… meant for Ghanaians,” she added.

Nana Yaa Jantuah also raised concerns about the decision to award design contracts to foreign architects instead of Ghanaian professionals. She urged the Board of Trustees to account for how the funds were spent.

“The 250-seater restaurant wasn’t even necessary. Bible museum for what? If you wanted to build a hotel, you could have done that. Why wasn’t the project even given to Ghanaian architects? We have architects in Ghana, so why not contact them? I don’t understand how the Board of Trustees sat for this to happen. They could have dealt with it from the beginning.

“They should be able to come out and tell us what exactly happened. Where have all the monies gone? The NPP didn’t help us at all. Anyone who wants to see Ghana do better wouldn’t waste such a huge amount of money. It’s disheartening. They have left a ‘hell hole’ they call a project. The money that has gone into this is blood money—money meant for Ghanaians, money that could have been used to build schools,” she added.

Her comments follow an independent audit by Deloitte and Touche, which revealed that the National Cathedral project had cost the state approximately $97 million (GH¢339 million) by December 2023.

The 76-page audit report cited irregular financial practices, procurement breaches, and questionable payments.

Source: Farida Seidu | Adomonline

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The total budget could top $1 billion. Some people argue that with nearly $100m spent already (on accrual basis), the country might just as well complete it.

This is the famous “sunk costs fallacy”. I.e. “throwing good money after bad money.” But what if the Cathedral could make enough revenue to pay for itself, as its trustees say? I have addressed that issue extensively in the recent past. The short answer is that it cannot pay for itself. You just have to look at cathedrals around the world and their financial issues to benchmark.

Cologne Cathedral, for instance, has an impressive religious pedigree. Its museum (treasury) not only houses holy relics of several important saints, such as Ursula, and fragments of the True Cross, it also hosts the Shrine of the Maggi, the proverbial “wise men” who “came from the East to worship the infant Christ.” No matter how Ghana brands its Cathedral, it would simply not be able to compete with the 1000-year cathedrals dotted all over Christendom.

Cologne Cathedral receives 6 million visitors a year, more than 4x the annual number of visitors to Ghana. Many pay to enter the Museum. Yet, it is not financially self-sustaining. The Christian shrine most similar to what Ghana is attempting to build is the Basilica in Yamoussoukro in Côte d’Ivoire. It barely gets 30,000 visitors a year. It is entirely funded by donations from a Polish religious order. Obviously because it is a Catholic church. Ghana’s Cathedral, on the other hand, is non-denominational, probably why so few donations have come in so far.

Cologne Cathedral, for its part, needs €4.5 million from the Catholic Church in subsidies. Its annual maintenance costs alone exceed €10 million. The Church has had to implement cost-saving measures in recent years to keep the doors open. In fact, without the dedicated worldwide voluntary association that donates regularly to fund Cologne Cathedral, maintenance would be tough. All the evidence suggests, therefore, that the National Cathedral, if completed, would become another loss-making entity requiring permanent government subsidies.

Of course, any other project proposed to replace it must be subjected to the same rigorous cost-benefit analysis and assessed for financial sustainability. There are, admittedly, certain projects that have such a high social value that permanent subsidies make sense. But the way to determine is to enhance the cost-benefit analysis to capture social, and not only financial, benefits and then compare with alternative projects that also have a high social value. The total budget of a project must also always be a factor in such analyses.

******

Bright Simons is the Honorary Vice President of IMANI Ghana

Source: Bright Simons

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, July 19, Mr Bentil stressed that legal action must be taken against those whose actions have led to the financial mismanagement.

“They spent almost $100 million, and all we have is that hole. Go ahead, find the people who spent the money, let them come and confirm it.”

“Go ahead and prosecute them,” he added.

Mr. Bentil’s comments follow recent revelations from government spokespersons, indicating that approximately $97 million has been expended on the project so far, with a significant portion of the funds going unaccounted for.

The National Cathedral project, which was launched with much fanfare as a national place of worship, was championed by former President Nana Akufo-Addo as a “sacred obligation to God.”

The project has since remained at its foundation level following financial mismanagement by those in charge of the construction.

Mr Bentil argued that accountability must not be reduced to mere public discourse, stating that those involved in the crime must be punished.

Source: myjoyonline

This is despite limited visible progress on the construction initiated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo.

The 76-page report outlines several concerns, including irregular financial practices, procurement violations, and payments flagged as questionable.

Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu on Friday, July 18, released the report, sparking renewed debate over transparency and public accountability surrounding the controversial project.

Key findings from the report

1. Payments without contracts

The government paid GH¢15.7 million to Sir David Adjaye & Associates (the project’s lead architect) before a contract was signed in August 2019.

Some payments were made before the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) approved the use of single-source procurement for the architect.

2. Discrepancies in payments

Conflicting records show GH¢4.9 million in unexplained differences between payments declared by the Office of the President and those confirmed by Adjaye’s firm.

Mobilization fees paid to consultants varied significantly, with $861,000 unaccounted for in one instance.

3. Unauthorized additional work

$12.4 million was spent on design variations (including a 350-seater restaurant and Bible Museum) without a signed contract or PPA approval.

4. Questionable expenses

$110,630 was spent on fundraising events in the U.S., but no donations were traced to these efforts.

$24,498 was spent on personal items (e.g., engraved mugs, pens, and an Apple laptop for a consultant) under “reimbursable expenses.”

5. Lack of documentation

GH¢243,255 in 2023 expenses lacked supporting documents, including payments for funerals, media engagements, and transport.

GH¢117,180 was paid to the Board Secretary for “rent,” but no formal approval was found.

6. Procurement violations

The single-source selection of Adjaye did not meet legal requirements under Ghana’s Public Procurement Act.

The Procurement Committee was improperly constituted, lacking key members as mandated by law.

7. Financial mismanagement

The project owes GH¢343 million to contractors, with construction stalled since May 2022 due to funding shortages.

Pension contributions for staff were unpaid, violating Ghana’s National Pension Act.

8. Going concern risks

Deloitte flagged “material uncertainty” over the project’s survival, as fundraising efforts failed and government seed money dried up.

Government and Management Responses

The Board claimed some payments were “administrative decisions” and denied wrongdoing.

The Office of the President did not provide explanations for pre-contract payments.

Deloitte noted inadequate responses and unresolved issues in its final report.

The audit report has brought to light troubling gaps in financial oversight and project governance, casting doubt on how nearly $100 million in public funds has been managed.

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The amount was paid as consultancy fees in connection with the design and mobilisation works for the controversial project.

According to the report, there is an unexplained variance of GH₵4,932,091.14 between official records and the firm’s reported receipts.

Minister for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, disclosed this during a national update on the much-debated project, originally envisioned as a unifying national monument.

According to the Office of the President, an amount totaling GH₵113,040,564.86 was disbursed for the project. However, Sir David Adjaye & Associates Ltd. has indicated that it received GH₵117,972,656.00.

“The payments comprised GH₵87,938,750.00 from the Ministry of Finance between 26th September 2018 and 25th November 2019, and two subsequent transfers from the Office of the President—GH₵29,664,845.29 on 19th February 2021 and GH₵369,060.71 on 5th March 2021—totalling GH₵30,033,906.00,” he detailed.

Together, these figures align with the firm’s declared total, yet the variance remains unexplained in the government’s official records.

“Payment records show that GH₵87,938,750.00 was paid by the Ministry of Finance between 26th September 2018 and 25th November 2019. Subsequently, the Office of the President made two payments: GH₵29,664,845.29 on 19th February 2021 and GH₵369,060.71 on 5th March 2021—bringing the presidency’s total contribution to GH₵30,033,906.00. Combined, these payments amount to the GH₵117,972,656.00 received by the firm,” the Minister disclosed.

According to Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, the audit—conducted by Deloitte—covered the operations of the National Cathedral Secretariat between December 2021 and December 2023.

Addressing a press briefing on Friday, the Minister highlighted discrepancies in contract values, unapproved expenditures, and questionable payments made to international contractors and consultants.

“Between 26th September 2018 and 7th June 2019, a total of GHS 15,738,750 was paid to Sir David Adjaye well before the formal agreement was signed on 20th August 2019,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu stated.

He further noted that the audit exposed a lack of transparency in procurement processes, including payments made without prior approval from the Public Procurement Authority (PPA).

“This payment also preceded the approval of the contract sum of GHS 5,850,000 by the Public Procurement Authority, raising red flags about non-compliance with established procurement protocols,” he added.

“These actions represent a clear breach of procurement procedures as outlined in Section 40(1) and (2) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663), as amended by Act 914, and raise serious concerns about transparency, value for money, and adherence to due process in the award and execution of public contracts.

“Portions of the total contract value—specifically the mobilisation fee of USD 1,500,000 and a use/aftercare component of USD 1,187,500—were included in the payment schedule but lack any detailed breakdown or explanation of their composition,” he added.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu also disclosed that the Auditor-General has been tasked to carry out a forensic audit to uncover any additional financial improprieties.

He further indicated that the Attorney-General is taking steps to terminate the contract in order to prevent further losses to the state.

Source: Adomonline.com

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At a press conference on Friday, Minister for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, revealed that the audit uncovered significant procurement violations, particularly involving celebrated architect Sir David Adjaye and his firm, Adjaye & Associates.

According to the Minister, the audit identified major flaws in the contracting and payment processes.

“Between 26th September 2018 and 7th June 2019, a total of GHS 15,738,750 was paid to Sir David Adjaye — well before the formal agreement was signed on 20th August 2019,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.

He added that the payments were made prior to approval by the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), which later set the official contract sum at GHS 5,850,000.

“This payment also preceded the approval of the contract sum by the Public Procurement Authority, raising red flags about non-compliance with established procurement protocols,” he noted.

The report’s release is expected to intensify public discourse on the future of the stalled project and the legal steps being pursued by the Attorney-General’s office.

The Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, made the announcement at a press conference on Friday, July 18, 2025, stating that the decision is aimed at preventing further costs and losses to the state.

According to him, the move follows an independent audit by Deloitte and Touche, which uncovered serious concerns including undocumented expenditures, procurement breaches, irregular contract values, and questionable transactions involving foreign contractors and consultants.

“These revelations shake the very core of the project and the Secretariat’s operations,” Kwakye Ofosu said.

The audit, which covered the period from December 31, 2021, to December 31, 2023, revealed that total payments and commitments on the project have reached $97 million—far exceeding publicly disclosed figures. Of this amount, $39 million remains unpaid to the contractor, despite the suspension of construction.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu noted that although the Deloitte report reveals grave shortcomings, it covers only a portion of the Secretariat’s financial records. He added that the Auditor-General has been directed to conduct a full forensic audit to uncover any additional irregularities.

“After the forensic audit, decisive action will be taken regarding any impropriety determined and the future of the project itself,” he said.

Source: Adomonline.com

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The decision was announced by Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu at a press briefing on Friday, July 18, 2025. It comes in the wake of an audit that uncovered serious concerns regarding the management of public funds allocated to the project.

According to Kwakye Ofosu, the Secretariat—previously operating from the Jubilee House—was officially shut down on May 1, 2025.

“The audit findings rock the very foundation of the project and raise serious questions about the use of public resources,” he stated.

He further disclosed that the National Cathedral was registered as a company limited by guarantee, prompting the Attorney General to initiate legal proceedings for its complete dissolution.

“We expect those legal steps to commence in the coming days,” he added.

This move marks a major shift in the government’s approach to the controversial project, which has faced mounting public criticism over issues of cost, transparency, and accountability.

Source: Adomonline.com

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The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Friday, July 18, 2025, addressed the nation on issues surrounding the National Cathedral and other matters.

This follows the uncovering of serious financial and governance irregularities in an independent audit report by Deloitte and Touche.

At a press briefing held at the Jubilee House, Mr. Ofosu, among other things, disclosed that President John Mahama has already dissolved the National Cathedral Secretariat, effective May 1, 2025, and legal measures are now being pursued to formally dissolve the Board of Trustees.

Read the full text below:

Mr. Ofosu announced this in a Facebook post on Friday, July 18.

The address follows the Board of the National Cathedral refuted claims suggesting that the state-designated site for the cathedral project is being converted into a Cultural Convention Centre.

Following an emergency meeting on July 7, the Board in a statement clarified that while it had not received any formal notice on the matter, it deemed it necessary to address the circulating reports and affirm its position.

On matters of accountability, the Board referred to an audit conducted by Deloitte and Touche, which confirmed that all public funds allocated to the project were used appropriately, with disbursements made only after verification and under formal contracts.

There have therefore been public demands for the government to publish the findings of the audit report.

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According to Madam Nabla, she and many others donated towards the construction of a National Cathedral—not a Cultural Convention Centre—and the government’s move amounts to a betrayal of public trust.

The decision to reconfigure the project was outlined in a new policy document under the 24-hour economy initiative for culture, creative arts, and tourism, dubbed SH0W24.

The proposed NCCC is expected to be established in partnership with the AfCFTA Secretariat and serve as Africa’s premier venue for international exhibitions, film festivals, trade shows, and summits.

The government argues that the shift addresses a critical infrastructure gap while respecting religious and national values.

However, speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Madam Nabla strongly criticised the move and insisted that the original purpose—a National Cathedral—remains valid.

While it remains unclear whether she is a member of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, she vowed to ensure the church is reimbursed for its financial contributions.

“President Mahama told us it was not right for state resources to be used for a cathedral. So I am going to sue the government to ensure that the Presby Church gets our money back,” she said.

“I never contributed a pesewa towards a cultural convention centre; it was a cathedral. So it will be a mismanagement of funds if the cathedral is not built. They would have to pay us our money before embarking on the Cultural Convention Centre project.”

She further urged the government to consider launching a new national fundraising campaign if it wants to pursue the NCCC initiative.

Source: Gertrude Otchere

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This was contained in a policy document under the new 24-hour economy initiative for culture, creative arts, and tourism dubbed “SH0W24.”

The NCCC will be established in partnership with the AfCFTA Secretariat and is expected to become Africa’s leading venue for international exhibitions, film festivals, trade shows, and summits.

The initiative, government says, will address a critical infrastructure gap while avoiding conflict with religious or national values.

“At the national level, a bold flagship intervention is proposed: converting the National Cathedral site into the National Cultural Convention Centre (NCCC), in partnership with the AfCFTA Secretariat.

“This venue will serve as Africa’s premier cultural diplomacy and creative economy forum, hosting international exhibitions, film festivals, trade shows, and summits-filling a critical infrastructure gap without conflicting with national values or faith institutions,” the document states.

The NCCC project forms part of a broader plan to revitalise the creative arts, culture and tourism sectors as pillars of economic transformation. It marks a significant shift in the use of the controversial cathedral site, which has faced public scrutiny over delays, cost overruns and its relevance.

Under SH0W24, the centre will serve as the crown jewel in Ghana’s creative economy infrastructure. It is projected to host large-scale events and exhibitions that will place Ghana firmly on the global cultural map.

Feasibility studies for SHOW24 are scheduled for Phase 1 of implementation (2025-2026), with full commissioning expected by Phase 3 (2028-2030).

Other actions included in the SHOW24 strategy are the establishment of a National Creators Academy to train youth in music, film, fashion, digital media, and cultural performance. The training will integrate modern tools like AI and virtual reality, as well as business and cultural literacy.

In addition, over 250 community centres are set to be built or refurbished nationwide under the 24H+ Community Centre Network. These will operate 24/7 and serve as venues for training, production, exhibitions, and performances, stimulating night-time economic activity and local creative industries.

To boost market access, the initiative will also introduce the Ghana Cultural Passport, a digital platform offering curated cultural experiences for tourists, especially those from the diaspora.

Ghana’s embassies will be equipped to promote creative exports, while licensing and export support systems will connect local creatives to global distribution networks.

Financing support will be provided through the 24H+ Value Chain Financing Facility and a Technical Assistance Grant Facility, both aimed at sustaining creative entrepreneurs and enterprises.

The SH0W24 document highlights the enormous potential of the creative sector to drive employment, youth innovation and global cultural influence. However, it also acknowledges deep-rooted constraints, such as inadequate infrastructure and fragmented talent pipelines, which the new programme seeks to address systematically.

Phase 2 of the rollout (2026-2027) will see the operationalisation of the Ghana Cultural Passport, the launch of regional cultural programmes, and the establishment of creative districts across the country. By Phase 3, the focus will shift to export expansion and international partnerships.

With the proposed NCCC, the government hopes to reposition Ghana as a cultural powerhouse in Africa, transforming its creative assets into viable economic drivers while preserving and promoting its rich cultural identity.

The National Cathedral project, originally launched in 2018 as a symbol of national unity and religious faith, has been one of the most controversial public infrastructure projects in Ghana’s recent history.

Intended to serve as a non-denominational Christian worship centre, the project was plagued by delays, lack of transparency, ballooning costs, and public outcry over the use of state funds in a secular republic.

Despite initial assurances that it would be funded largely through private donations, millions of cedis in public funds were allocated without clear accountability, leading to calls from civil society groups, opposition parties, and even some clergy for a halt or complete review of the project.

Its conversion into the NCCC signals a major policy pivot, one that the government believes will transform the contested site into a space of inclusive national value.

Source: Kwame Dadzie

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The suggestion, made in an interview with Adom News, reflects Professor Gyampo’s deep concerns about the funding of the controversial project.

Professor Gyampo, who has been vocal about the National Cathedral’s progress and funding, urged President Mahama to approach the issue with caution.

He stated that the project, which was initially championed by Akufo-Addo as a personal vow to God, should not become a financial burden on the national purse.

“Over $50 million has been spent just to dig a hole for this cathedral project,” Professor Gyampo remarked.

“This is a waste of resources, and we must question the direction of this project, especially when the country faces numerous economic challenges.”

The Political Science expert further argued that Mr. Mahama, while inheriting the mantle of leadership, is not obliged to fulfill the personal vow of his predecessor.

Drawing a parallel to the biblical story of King Solomon building the Temple for God in place of his father David, Prof. Gyampo emphasized that Mahama should not feel compelled to carry the weight of his predecessor’s personal promises.

“Former President Akufo-Addo made this vow to God, not President Mahama.

“We are now witnessing the consequences of that vow. It is not President Mahama’s responsibility to fulfill it. We must ask whether this is the best use of the nation’s resources,” he said.

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According to him, some issues need to be prioritised over building a cathedral.

He also emphasised that, the commitment to build the cathedral stemmed from a personal promise made by President Akufo-Addo to God and not Mahama.

Mr Akandoh said this in an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen, stating that, God would not even choose a cathedral over a hospital for instance.

“Ghanaians are not unreasonable people and the expectation will be along those lines. I don’t think any reasonable bystander expects President Mahama to build a cathedral within one week and I don’t think he will even do that.  John Mahama hasn’t promised God he will build a cathedral.

“People are dying from cholera and we don’t even to prevent it so why would we focus on building a cathedral. I will disagree with anybody. We are all Christians and nobody can be blackmailed. I believe God will be happy in heaven if we have proper hospitals and people are healthy,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Mr Mahama in July 2024, promised that his next administration will conduct a comprehensive investigation and forensic audit of the National Cathedral project.

He pledged to scrutinise every aspect of the project described as “the most expensive” to ensure value for money and adherence to good governance principles.

The former President explained that, the forensic audit would involve a detailed examination of financial transactions, procurement processes, and resource utilisation to identify any irregularities or instances of corruption and to hold those responsible accountable.

Speaking to Evans Mensah on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, he stressed that the inclusion of the saga in ORAL’s work was non-negotiable due to its glaring irregularities and the substantial public interest surrounding the matter.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa described it as “a betrayal of the country” if the National Cathedral scandal is not subjected to scrutiny.

“This is a glaring matter. With all the enormous public interest and how much of our resources—over $58 million—has gone into this project, it would be unthinkable not to investigate it.

“This does not even include the private donations or the compensation paid to those whose properties were demolished,” he stated.

The National Cathedral project, which was initiated by the outgoing Akufo-Addo administration, has been mired in controversy, with critics labelling it a misuse of public funds.

The Minority in Parliament has described it as “the most expensive pit” in Ghana’s history, pointing to the lack of tangible progress despite significant financial outlays.

The North Tongu MP said the ORAL Team’s work on the National Cathedral would build on an existing report by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).

“CHRAJ has already written to the Attorney General and the Office of Special Prosecutor, attaching their findings on the matter. Our role will be to emphasize what has already been uncovered and go further,” he explained.

He highlighted the need for a forensic audit of the project. “We need to follow the money. Let’s know where it all ended. Clearly, $58 million cannot be accounted for based on the work done on the ground,” the legislator said.

Mr Ablakwa pointed to several figures and transactions that warrant investigation.

“For instance, someone like Cary Summers in the United States is keeping $6 million of our money. David Adjaye has also been accused of inflationary pricing. How do we retrieve some of our money from these individuals and entities?” he queried.

He added, “The rest of the funds—how were they spent? What did they pay for? These are questions that must be answered. Many Ghanaians are looking forward to closure on this matter.”

Mr Ablakwa stated that the public’s demand for transparency and accountability was a driving force behind the ORAL Team’s commitment to investigating the National Cathedral.

“Ghanaians want closure. They want to know how their resources were used and whether those resources can be recovered. It is our responsibility to provide those answers,” he said.

He assured the public of the ORAL Team’s determination to do the necessary work.

“Rest assured, we will follow through. We will conduct the n

He suggested that the project’s controversy played a role in the party’s loss in the 2024 general election, referring to the public backlash as a “big lesson” for the NPP.

In an interview on JoyNews‘ Newsfile on Saturday, Mr Aboagye acknowledged the strong convictions that many leaders have about the project but emphasised the importance of listening to public opinion.

“There is this issue about the National Cathedral. You may be strongly convinced about it, but if the people have punished you, in the future, you learn from it and realise that if you are doing the thing for the people and they say they don’t want it, maybe you do a national address and say, ‘I’ve been trying to do this thing and the feedback I’m getting is that you don’t want it,” he said.

Mr Aboagye’s remarks come as the National Cathedral project continues to stir debate across the country. While supporters argue that it represents a monumental religious and cultural symbol, critics have raised concerns over the allocation of funds and the prioritisation of the project amidst other national needs.

Mr Aboagye also attributed the failure and the issues surrounding the project to poor communication from the government.

According to him, things might not have gone wrong if the government had been transparent from the start about using state funds for the project.

“Communication around such things is very important. I’m sure that what the government, or the Finance Minister who I heard repeatedly promoting this project, should have communicated from the beginning is that, even though funds will be raised from private individuals and corporate organizations, we need to start.

“We need to demolish and prepare the site, and for that reason, the government will provide some seed money. But that is not going to be the funding to actually execute the project. If we had communicated this properly, we wouldn’t be where we are now,” he explained.

He added, “I don’t think the communication was handled correctly, and when that happens, you allow your detractors to take advantage and lead the conversation.”

The building of the Cathedral was in fulfilment of a supposed promise President Akufo-Addo claimed to have made to God before winning the 2016 elections.

In 2019, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, stated that the construction of the National Cathedral was estimated to cost over $100 million.

Amid the controversies surrounding the development, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), after investigating the case, recommended that the Auditor General conduct a forensic audit of the project to determine what went wrong and possibly prosecute those found to have committed any wrongdoing.

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Speaking on the National Cathedral controversy, which involves the board of trustees of the project, all of whom are members of the clergy, Mr. Domelevo opined that public revenues should not be entrusted to the protection of theology.

Last month, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) recommended a forensic audit and potential prosecution of the trustees of the National Cathedral project. This came after an investigation into allegations of corruption and abuse of power regarding the controversial project.

Speaking at an event on curbing illicit financial flows in Ghana, Mr. Domelevo said, “Unfortunately, the trustees are all men of God, but let me say we don’t manage public funds with the Bible or theology; we manage public funds with the constitution.”

He added that other laws of the country, including the Public Procurement Act and the Internal Audit Act, can be used to manage revenues and “not the Bible.”

mR. Domelevo stressed that the board members should have obeyed the laws and not the Bible, arguing that the Bible “cannot save you this time.”

He was speaking during the forum organized by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) in Accra on Tuesday, December 3.

A report issued by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) on the National Cathedral project revealed that the board of trustees mismanaged a sum of GHC2.6 million, which they could not account for.

The report recommended that the Auditor General conduct a forensic investigation into the scandal and consider possible prosecution of the board members involved. CHRAJ investigated the scandal after the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, petitioned them.

Despite the cathedral being at its foundation level, over GHC50 million has been spent on the project, resulting in a significant loss to the state.

The National Cathedral is a promise made by the president, Nana Akufo-Addo, to construct the facility to honor God.

“One of the most controversial personal presidential campaign promises of the last thirty-plus years has been the pledge by the then-candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to himself that he will build a National Cathedral to the Lord our God, when he is voted into office as the President of the Republic.

“Launching the National Cathedral Fundraising Campaign on Friday, 28^th December 2018 at the forecourt of the State House, Accra, two years after his 2016 electoral victory, President Akufo-Addo said as pertained to Solomon’s dedication of the first temple to God as taught by the Bible, saying he knows that God cannot be contained in a physical edifice. (GhanaWeb)

“Rather, and again like Solomon on that occasion, the building of the National Cathedral is to serve as a gesture of thanksgiving to God for his blessings, favour, grace and mercies on our nation, and to give me an opportunity to redeem a pledge I made to Him before I became President,” he said.

“The president made a personal contribution of GH₵100,000.00 towards the construction of the edifice at the event.

“The National Cathedral, the president explained is more than just another piece of infrastructure or national monument.

“It will provide us with an avenue to call the nation to prayer, to worship, to celebrate, and to mourn.

“It will house a Bible Museum and will be an iconic infrastructure for national, regional and international pilgrimage and tourism. It will create jobs, and serve as a catalyst for technology and skills transfer into our country,” President Akufo-Addo stressed.

He continued, “The Cathedral will also provide a platform to promote deep national conversations on the role of faith in building the progressive and prosperous Ghana we all want. I am convinced that out of these conversations would emerge the ideas and values that should help us build a new Ghanaian civilization. This is the basis on which I identify it as a personal priority.” (GhanaWeb)

“Reiterating his earnest wish that the building of the National Cathedral should not be a burden on the state, President Akufo-Addo noted that it was for this reason that the Christian community, home and abroad, is being mobilized in partnership to raise the needed resources to build the Cathedral.

Whilst respecting the views of those who differ with him on the matter of the construction of the Cathedral, the President indicated that: ‘I am comforted in my decision by the vast numbers of enthusiastic supporters of this project, whose spiritual dimension is limitless.” (GhanaWeb)

“The President was confident that ‘like the statement of the Prophet Nehemiah in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem, it is Almighty God who will prosper us and make us succeed in this endeavour. I am confident of the support of the Ghanaian people for this coalition of churches, corporations and individuals in bringing this project into fruition.” (GhanaWeb)

THIS DEFINITELY WAS A PERSONAL VOW TO GOD BY NANA ADDO DANKWA AKUFO-ADDO, A GHANAIAN & AN AKYEM, IN THE PURSUIT OF HIS PERSONAL SOLEMN PROMISE IN THE FORM OF AN OATH TO GOD THAT, SHOULD HE BE ELECTED AS THE 5^TH PRESIDENT OF THE 4^TH REPUBLIC OF GHANA, HE WILL, BY A PERSONAL INITIATIVE FOR TOTAL FUNDS MOBILIZATION, BUILD A CATHEDRAL TO HONOUR GOD.

“Called the ‘Cathedral of Scandals’, the planned US$400m supposedly now state-funded church has become hugely controversial in Ghana even as the country pursues an IMF loan due to huge debts and economic woes. (Aljazeera)

“About 700 metres (765 yards) from Ghana’s Parliament sits one of the world’s most controversial craters, a hole surrounded by weeds into which USD$58m has already been sunk for the building of an interdenominational national cathedral. (Aljazeera)

“I (PERSONAL) made a pledge to almighty God that He was gracious enough to grant my party, the NPP, and I victory in the 2016 elections after two unsuccessful attempts, so I will help build a cathedral to His glory and honour,” President Nana Akufo-Addo said at the sod-cutting ceremony in 2020. (Aljazeera)

“The interdenominational national cathedral will help unify the Christian community and thereby help promote national unity and social cohesion,” he said. (Aljazeera)

“But construction of the president’s pet project, due to cover 3.5 hectares (9 acres) of prime Accra real estate, has stalled since June due to lack of funds. If it weren’t for the cranes and artistic impressions of the project surrounding the construction zone, it could pass for an abandoned illegal mining site.

“Ghana, a major cocoa producer and leading exporter of gold, is facing its worst economic crisis in decades and has racked up a debt of US$45bn by the end of November 2023. (Aljazeera)

“The cost of living is high in the West African state with inflation hitting a record 54 percent in 21 years. Rents, fuel and transport prices have risen, and about a quarter of the population live below the poverty line, according to the United Nations Development Programme and the Ghana Statistical Service.

“Funding for the national cathedral has been shrouded in secrecy, but last year, the secretariat in charge of the project said the cost, initially estimated at US$100, has now quadrupled due to inflation.

“While presenting the 2019 budget to parliament, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta promised the cathedral would not “put financial burdens on the state”.

“He said most of the costs would be covered y donations and the government was providing only the land (which is at great costs with compensations to be paid amidst litigations) and an unspecified amount of ‘seed money for the preparatory phase’. (Aljazeera)

“However, that has not been the case. Most of the US$58m spent so far has come from the national coffers, Ofori-Atta himself told parliament when it summoned him in November for censure hearing.

“A month later, parliament blocked a budget allocation of US$6.3m that the government had wanted to continue the project even as Ghana struggles to restructure its debt to qualify for a US$3bn loan from the International Monetary Fund.

Strategic Project Or Misplaced Priority

“The government argues the cathedral will bring enormous long-term economic benefits while transforming Ghana into a religious hub, creating jobs and accruing more revenue for the state.

The plan is for the cathedral’s 5,000-seat, two-level auditorium, which could be expanded to have an additional capacity of 15,000, to serve as a sacred space and facility for national events like state funerals and presidential inaugural services. It would also be home to Africa’s first Bible Museum and Documentation Centre. In addition, the cathedral would have a music school, an art gallery, shops and a national crypt for state burials. (Aljazeera)

I have gone to this extent, copiously to place the whole subject of the matter into proper perspective for all of us to appreciate what the issues are against the different contexts, especially as I have been fascinated by all the shadow boxing skirmishes going on round about us.

We all seem to be missing the real intent of the arguments and or the noises, considering the fact that the majority of Ghanaians are Christians and therefore such an enterprise, worthy as the underlying primary motive is – ‘building a house for the Lord’.

The real issue is that we were all hoodwinked by NADAA, after he had made a purely UNSOLICITED PERSONAL, PRIVATE & PARTY PLEDGE to the Lord our God that:

“…if the Lord was gracious enough to grant my party, the New Patriotic

Party (NPP), and I victory in the 2016 elections after two unsuccessful

attempts, so I will help build a cathedral to His glory and honour”.

This has nothing to do with the people (excluding the NPP, its executives & family and friends of NADAA), the state, other political parties, their national, regional, district and local executives as well as their registered memberships; and he could not have made any such pledge for and on behalf of anybody else.

Sincerely, I can understand NADAA and his pledge as well as the efficacy of this kind, from eternity to eternity and in the affairs of all religions, most importantly, the Christian faith; such pledges work and why NADAA and his party, NPP won the 2016 National Elections.

Throughout the Old Testament, Kings who have invoked the power behind the financing and building temples for the Lord our God have always used personal wealth and riches and not from the taxes and resources of the state and or kingdom.

King David had throughout his war exploits with all the booties, after his soldiers had received their shares, kept them till he became King of Israel and then he was instructed that he should leave the building of the first Temple to his son, Solomon to execute (reference the books of Kings and Chronicles) – “I intend, therefore, to build a temple for the Name of the Lord my God…” 1 Kings 5:5 and “Solomon gave orders to build a temple for the Name of the Lord…” 2 Chronicles 2:1.

Furthermore, the Book of Ezra records King Darius issuing a decree for the rebuilding of the temple (Ezra 5:13-15) after he had encountered the prophet Daniel and releasing his personal resources for the work with the support of his rich elders.

At no time did Kings Solomon and Darius use state resources for the either building the Temple on the promise of King David and or the request of Prophet Daniel; and therefore, NADAA got it all wrong with the approach of committing US$58m state funds to create the ‘world’s most expensive crater’.

I am most petrified by not only the insensitivities of the President and his party, the NPP on whose behalf the pledge was made but the deafening silences of Ghanaians, particularly the clergy and civil society, on the colossal state debt any future government is going to inherit, considering.

For a start, we should, as a people and as a state, begin to explore how we are going to block the payments of all gratuities plus all other benefits to be owed all members of NADAA government for the two terms (2017-2025) by way of garnishment, including all properties located across the globe.

We need to use this to set the precedents for how to deal with the political class as to corruption and other infractions, mindful that the final indebtedness for us as a nation and as a people to retire will include the compensations to underwrite the costs of all properties destroyed in order to prepare the site for the construction of the proposed National Cathedral.

Need I say more…

According to him, the various members of the Board of Trustees of the famous National Cathedral, who are prominent religious leaders in the country, have not performed well in terms of accountability.

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) released a report on the Cathedral project on Tuesday after months of investigation.

The report recommends that the Auditor-General conduct a forensic audit of the entire project and potentially prosecute the various members of the Board of Trustees, particularly the clergy, who allegedly mismanaged state funds for personal and organizational gain.

For Mr. Senanu, this indicates that “Clearly, there was a lack of competency. Given the nature and stature of such persons (the men of God), I would be very hesitant to say that all of them consciously got themselves into this situation… It tells me that we have a major deficit, especially among our clergy,” he said.

He also questioned the procedures considered when appointing the clergymen to the role of Board members, stating that such mistakes should not happen again. “We should never make this mistake again. I don’t even know and understand what the rules are for appointing such boards, where we could just set up a board of all clergy when we are dealing with public funds,” he said.

Speaking on the Joy News AM Show on Tuesday, November 26, Mr. Senanu suggested that moving forward, the appropriate technical steps should be taken in such cases.

“I think that is something that needs to be addressed. Appointing such boards must ensure the necessary technical competencies,” he stressed.

According to the CHRAJ report, members of the Board of Trustees agreed not to take minutes during their meetings while serving on the board. This decision, however, jeopardized accountability and has led to financial losses for the nation.

About a year ago, the Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, petitioned CHRAJ to investigate the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral project after alleging mismanagement of state funds and irregularities in the award of contracts.

Some notable religious leaders who were members of the board include Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah as the Chairperson, Archbishop Charles Palmer-Buckle as the Vice Chairman, Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Most Rev. T. K. Awotwi Pratt, Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, and Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng as the General Secretary.

Other members are Dr. Paul Opoku-Mensah, Sir David Adjaye, Dr. Frimpong Manso, and Rev. Kingsley Ofosu Ntiamoah.

The National Cathedral project is a promise made by President Nana Akufo-Addo during his 2016 election campaign to build a place to glorify God if he became president of the country. However, allegations of mismanagement of funds for the construction have emerged, leading to calls for accountability.

Eight years into his presidency, Nana Addo’s dream of building a place to honor God is in jeopardy, as those he entrusted with the project appear to view it as an opportunity to embezzle money for personal enrichment.

Meanwhile, the government has already spent GHC 339 million on the project, which is still at its foundation level.

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The proposed prosecution is in line with their role in awarding the contract which CHRAJ has concluded breaches procurement laws.

“The Commission further recommends for further investigation and possible prosecution of the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral who superintended over the award of the contract to Ribade Company in disregard to Act 663 as amended,” the report stated.

This was contained in CHRAJ’s report following an investigation into a petitioned filed by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in January 2023.

Mr Ablakwa petitioned CHRAJ to investigate Rev. Kusi Boateng, Secretary to the National Cathedral Board of Trustees, over claims of conflict of interest, alleged possession of multiple identities, and other alleged improprieties.

However, CHRAJ has exonerated Reverend Kusi Boateng who is also the leader and founder of the Power House Chapel.

Mr Ablakwa’s petition had also alleged that there was a transfer of GH¢2.6 million in cash from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited owned by Rev. Kusi-Boateng under his secondary identity, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

However, CHRAJ concluded that no service was rendered by the JNS Talent Centre Limited owned by Rev. Kusi-Boateng under his secondary identity, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi and that there was no evidence of the said payment, thus clearing him of conflict of interest.

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This follows a petition by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a vocal critic of the controversial project, in January 2023.

The lawmaker alleged corruption, abuse of power, and a lack of transparency in the construction process.

In a detailed report dated November 22, 2024, CHRAJ cited several breaches of Ghana’s procurement laws, particularly in awarding the construction contract to Ribade Company Ltd.

CHRAJ concluded that the contract was “void ab initio for being entered into contrary to the mandatory provisions of the Procurement Act, Act 663, as amended by Act 914.”

The report, signed by CHRAJ Commissioner Joseph Whittal, called on the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) to intervene and cancel the contract with Ribade Company Ltd.

“The Board of the Public Procurement Authority should intervene to cancel the contract for the construction of the National Cathedral between the National Cathedral Secretariat and Ribade Company Ltd, as it has the power to do so under the Procurement Act,” the report stated.

Additionally, CHRAJ urged the Auditor-General to conduct a forensic audit of the project, raising concerns about the GH₵225,962,500.00 spent as of May 31, 2022, described as “seed money.”

“This sum of money has been expended on site preparation, contractors’ mobilization, U.S. fundraising, consultants, and symposia.

“Public interest dictates that there ought to be value for money in project execution. Unfortunately, this Commission has no expertise to determine whether there has been value for money, considering the project remains in the same state,” the report noted.

CHRAJ emphasized the reputational risks posed by the project’s controversies, stressing that breaches of procurement laws could attract “international embarrassment to the country considering its international status and that of Ribade Company Ltd.”

Meanwhile, the government and the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral are yet to comment on the report.

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Her remarks come amid growing unease about the project’s stalled progress and the impact on staff salaries.

Speaking at a symposium organized in collaboration with TD Jakes’ Divinity School on Monday, October 14, Dr. Aryee said, “Just because a project is on hold doesn’t mean people aren’t working behind the scenes to keep it moving. I find these concerns so ridiculous, I don’t even want to comment.”

She also challenged the logic behind these worries, asking, “So you start an organization, and it should shut down because there’s no money to continue one part of it? Answer that yourself.”

Meanwhile, Executive Director of the National Cathedral, Dr. Paul Opoku-Mensah, has addressed public misconceptions, emphasizing that the cathedral is much more than just a church.

He highlighted its potential to generate revenue and showcase Ghana’s cultural heritage on the global stage.

The National Cathedral project has faced strong opposition, with critics questioning the government’s role and raising concerns about financial transparency.

Despite this, Dr. Opoku-Mensah remains optimistic, especially after the symposium, which sought to inform the public about the cathedral’s broader mission.

“The symposium reflects the National Cathedral’s vision to respond to Ghana’s perception of return initiatives and create a faith-driven pathway connecting Ghana to the African diaspora,” Dr. Opoku-Mensah said.

Source: Adomonline

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According to him, this move from the President will help free the eminent men of God who supported the project despite the controversies.

In a post on Facebook, expressing his frustration, the deputy NDC Campaign Coordinator for elections 2024, in charge of special operations, lamented that the project which had the support of many faith-based organisations has now become a scam.

“It will be good for Akufo-Addo and his generation to come out and apologize first to God, second to the people of Ghana. So that whoever comes into office will think about what to do with that space in the good name of our nation.

“Remember we had bungalows there for judges. Akufo-Addo demolished all of them and went to dig a hole. He must please listen to good counsel and apologize,” he noted.

He said the construction was a worthy course and in a good direction, however, all Ghanaians have now is the world’s most expensive swimming pool and pit.

“Today as we speak the whole cathedral project has become a scam because the President said the cathedral will be built at all cost. Today it has become a swimming pool and these men of God, in their churches people are asking questions.

“I think it’s about time these great men of God and Christians call on the president to come out and speak on this cathedral project. Apologize to the people of this country and free these men of God from this shame,” he added.

Listen to Chief Biney in the audio below:

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In a recent interview with Takoradi-based Empire FM, he said what may have caused the debate about the propriety or otherwise of the cathedral is the fact that it is a vow made to God by one person.

“The reason why there are a lot of problems and confusion is that it was not a collective vow. It was an individualistic vow and that is why there is a little bit of an issue there,” he said.

Buttressing his point with some Biblical examples, Sonnie said people who made vows to God in the Biblical times ensured they honoured them.

“If that was the vow that the President gave to God, then he needs to honour his vow. When you read the Bible, people made vows to God and they fulfilled them. So you asking me if it is necessary, I will say that if he vowed to God, he needs to honour.

But that is very personal between him and his God. So it’s more like ‘I have promised God so I need to use my own money to fulfil it’. But when it’s like ‘I have promised God so let’s all do it’, that is where the whole confusion is,” he indicated.

Sonnie Badu, however, noted that the idea of the National Cathedral is a good one.

“A cathedral is a good thing. Just as there are a lot of mosques that Muslims put together for people to go there to worship, a National Cathedral, something for the nation is not a bad idea,” he added.

About the National Cathedral of Ghana

The construction of the National Cathedral of Ghana is borne out of a promise that the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, made to God.

“I made a pledge to almighty God that He was gracious enough to grant my party, the NPP, and I victory in the 2016 elections after two unsuccessful attempts, so I will help build a cathedral to his glory and honour,” President Nana Akufo-Addo said at the sod-cutting ceremony in 2020.

“The interdenominational national cathedral will help unify the Christian community and thereby help promote national unity and social cohesion,” he added.

The Cathedral is supposed to provide a historic opportunity to put God at the centre of our nation’s affairs and serve as a symbol of our eternal and continuing gratitude to Him for the blessings He continues to shower and bestow on our nation.

Conceptually, the National Cathedral represents a vision of a society which is, firstly, dependent on God, and whose aspirations are captured by the opening words of our National Anthem: God bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong!

The National Cathedral gives practical expression to this vision of a society mediated by the Almighty and represents a sacred space for the nation. The Cathedral, thus, addresses a missing link in our national architecture, i.e. church for national purposes.

It will be an interdenominational house of worship and prayer and will serve as the venue for formal state occasions of a religious nature, such as the inauguration of Presidents, state funerals, and national thanksgiving services, amongst others.

The President believes that the National Cathedral will be a unifying monument around which to elevate shared conversations on faith and national transformation. It will also serve as a rallying platform to promote deep national conversations on how, collectively, we can build the progressive and prosperous Ghana we desire.

Controversies

The project, which is the brainchild of President Nana Akufo-Addo, has faced opposition and criticism.

A lot of people have suggested the construction of the cathedral is not on the priority list of Ghanaians, particularly in the wake of the country’s economic woes.

The project has also been hit by scandals resulting in the resignation of some of its committee members.

Although funding for the $400 million project was said to be taken from donations and “seed money by the government”, a bigger part of the $58m which has been spent so far, has come from the national coffers.

In the meantime, the National Cathedral project has stalled due to insufficient funds.

Apostle Onyinah announced the decision after a meeting held on September 20 between the Board of Directors of the National Cathedral of Ghana and auditors from Deloitte.

The meeting was called to brief church leaders on the statutory audit report covering the project’s financial activities from its inception up to December 31, 2020, which Deloitte Ghana has now completed.

The audit was commissioned by the National Cathedral’s board in response to widespread public concerns over allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement surrounding the project.

Apostle Onyinah confirmed that the completion of the audit clears the way for the construction to resume.

“The audit was a significant demand from both church leaders and the Ghanaian public to ensure transparency in the project’s implementation. With this report finalized, preparations are now in place to resume construction.

“We are grateful for your support so far and hope that the completion of the audit will encourage further prayers and financial contributions towards the National Cathedral project.”

Over the past seven years, Ghanaian taxpayers have spent $58 million on the project, which, as of August 2024, remains incomplete.

An estimated $450 million is required to finish construction, although it is unclear whether sufficient funds are available to meet this target.

By mid-2022, various church denominations had contributed GH¢2.21 million ($164,000) towards the project.

However, this sum falls significantly short of covering the remaining costs.

Source: Adomonline

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Speaking at a media encounter on Sunday, July 7th, 2024, Mahama criticized the misuse of public funds under the guise of building a religious monument.

“Building the house of God is something we should all support. I have personally contributed to my church, but I do not condone stealing in the name of God,” Mahama stated. “This is precisely what has happened with the National Cathedral.”

Nonetheless, the NDC flagbearer noted that some members of the Board of Trustees have resigned and called for a forensic audit of the project.

“They are demanding a forensic audit because this was someone’s personal promise to God, and we were assured that no public money would be used. However, some public funds have indeed been spent on it,” he explained.

He emphasized the need for accountability and transparency, insisting that those responsible for any financial misconduct must be held accountable.

“These matters must be thoroughly investigated, and a forensic audit must be conducted. Any misappropriated funds must be refunded,” Mahama asserted.

As Ghana prepares for the December 7 general elections, Mahama’s pledge to scrutinize the National Cathedral project underscores his commitment to fiscal responsibility and anti-corruption measures.

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His comments follow the recent disclosure by the Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, Abena Osei Asare, that an amount of GH¢339 million has been released for the National Cathedral project.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show on July 4, he said, “Lack of prioritisation, the abysmal levels of policy formation, the disrespect for the Ghanaian people and the disregard for our laws. All of those ingredients are at play when you analyse this cathedral project.”

“How come a project which was presented to us as a private project, a personal pledge of the president which would not require public funds- the President was emphatic – indeed, when the president met the eminent clergy, the first time he constituted the board of trustees, he told them that they were not going to use public funds. They were going to raise resources from outside the public purse,” he said.

“How did we move from no state resources to seed capital? After they began to carry out amendment when we had exposed the lack of sincerity, lack of candour with the claims that they would not use public funds, they then made a significant shift and said they are going to use minimum resources and that it will be just a seed fund.”

“There ought to be a figure. As lawmakers we are required to know what the amount is, because every single project in the budget that is the law, you must provide the specific amount. Up till now, the government has not told us that seed fund, what it will amount to,” he said.

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His comments follow the recent disclosure by the Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, Abena Osei Asare, that an amount of GH¢339 million has been released for the National Cathedral project.

According to her, the Ministry committed the amount to ensure that the project had the necessary funding.

She also said that audits conducted by institutions, including Deloitte Ghana, indicated there had been value for money.

Reacting to this on JoyFM’s Newsnight, Mr Ablakwa said there was no proper accountability for the project.

He said that there has not been significant progress and the project has since stalled despite the huge amount of money invested.

“The National Cathedral project continues to be very hazy, sleazy and totally corrupt. A project with massive diversions and lack of accountability in a very grave manner,” he said.

He explained that during the proceedings, the Minister of State could not provide a positive response to whether the project had gone through the required procurement process before the GH¢339 million was released to support the project.

Additionally, Mr Ablakwa stated that the minister’s claims of value for money were unfounded.

He alleged that her statements contradicted the former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s claim that there was no allocation in the budget to support the National Cathedral project and that the funds were taken from the contingency vault.

In view of this, he asked “So, why are they shifting the goalpost? Why are they presenting us with different stories.”

In November 2022, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta denied taking money from the Consolidated Fund to finance the National Cathedral project.

According to him, the said claims are false.

This was in response to the Minority’s allegation that the Finance Minister released GH₵25 million to the National Cathedral Secretariat as additional seed money for the project without Parliament’s approval.

Mr Ofori-Atta said this on Friday when he appeared before the 8-member Ad-hoc Committee probing the Minority’s motion of censure against him.

The Finance Minister stressed that he did not breach any laws concerning payments for the project.

“I have taken no money from the Contingency Fund to make payments for the National Cathedral,” he clarified.

He explained that there is a difference between the Contingency Fund and the Contingency Vault, adding that the proponents of the censure motion against him might have confused the two terms.

“The Contingency Fund the proponents referred to is what is covered under the Constitution, specifically, under Article 177. This constitutes money voted by Parliament and advances from this must be authorised by the Parliamentary Finance Committee.

“The Contingency Vault on the other hand is a line under the other government obligation vault, which is approved by the Finance Committee and passed as part of the annual Appropriation Act passed by Parliament,” he explained.

He added that monies that have been disbursed for use for the project were from the Contingency Vault.

CHRAJ in a letter to all the persons involved on Thursday, June 27, announced that it is currently finalising its decision on the petition, which it received in January 2023.

The lawmaker’s petition alleged corruption, abuse of power, and violations of Chapter 24 of the 1992 Constitution.

Following its investigations, CHRAJ indicated that it is in the process of compiling its report on the matter.

The Commission has set a deadline for the fifth respondent to provide specific information; and was if the information is not submitted by the deadline, CHRAJ will proceed to release its report without it.

This development highlights CHRAJ’s commitment to addressing the allegations and ensuring transparency and accountability in the handling of the national cathedral project.

Background

The North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa who had raised several issues of impropriety and infractions regarding the construction of the National Cathedral, accused Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng of engaging in a conflict of interest as Secretary to the Board of Trustees of the project.

In January 2023, he subsequently petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate him for conflict of interest and possession of multiple identities and other alleged criminal dealings.

The petition also alleged that there was a transfer of GH¢2.6million cash from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited owned by Rev. Kusi-Boateng under his secondary identity, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

Mr Ablakwa’s petition is seeking to invoke the mandate of CHRAJ under Article 218 of the 1992 Constitution to investigate the “odious conflict of interest” with regard to Rev. Kusi Boateng’s position on the National Cathedral board as he “literally paid his own company a staggering GH¢2.6 million for no work done”.

Suits

Rev. Kusi Boateng subsequently filed a defamation suit against Mr Ablakwa and followed it up with a contempt application, accusing the legislator of refusing to be served with the defamation suit.

He applied for an order to enforce his human rights seeking to prevent the MP from further commenting on the subject.

In May 2023, the High Court in Accra dismissed the contempt application on the basis that it was flawed with inconsistencies, was irregular and failed to meet the threshold of the law.

After dismissing the contempt application, the court, presided over by Justice Charles Gyamfi Dankwa, slapped Rev. Kusi Boateng with a cost of GH¢10, 000 in favour of the MP.

But the reverend Minister is currently at the Court of Appeal seeking to restrain the MP.

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Reports suggested the court has thrown out an application to restrain the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa from discussing Rev Boateng in relation to the National Cathedral project.

Prior to Wednesday’s ruling, the founder and overseer of the Power Chapel International had lost two similar suits at the High Court.

According to the court, the grounds of appeal failed to comply with the rules of the Court of appeal.

It said, “the grounds are incompetent and inadmissible” and struck it out.

However, the lawyers have said there was no application filed at the Court of Appeal or any other court for that matter filed by the Appellant to restrain Mr Ablakwa.

“Further, the appeal against the ruling dismissing the application for committal for contempt has not been struck out or dismissed. The substantive appeal is yet to be heard by the court of appeal,” portions of a lengthy statement read.

The statement signed by Bobby Banson has therefore entreated all persons to disregard any publication or reports which do not reflect the record of proceedings as summarized above.

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Read below the full sequence of proceedings:

Speaking at a meeting with the clergy in the Greater Accra Region, Dr Bawumia emphasised the importance of the project for Ghana.

He stressed the need for the church to unite and engage with the government to explore ways to secure private resources to complete the project.

“The church has to come together and meet the government so that we talk about the way forward. The church must come together and let the government know the best way forward on how we can get private resources to help us complete the National Cathedral,” he said on Monday.

Dr. Bawumia expressed optimism that a collective effort can find a solution, saying “if we all come together, we will figure it out.”

“I think if we all come together we will figure it out because we cannot leave it where it is,” he added.

Background

The building of the Cathedral is in fulfillment of a pledge President Akufo-Addo claimed to have made to God before winning the 2016 elections.

The 5,000-seater auditorium Cathedral project will also bequeath to the country a gracious national park for all Ghanaians, bring new skills, technology and jobs to the country and act as a beacon to national, regional and international tourists.

In 2021, the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta announced that the government will commission the ongoing National Cathedral project on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, but that did not happen as work on the project has stalled with millions of dollars already spent on it.

Aside from the lack of funds to continue the project, the project’s construction has been embroiled in a lot of controversy with the National Cathedral Secretariat accused of misapplying the funds.

A member of the board has been dragged to the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to be investigated over an alleged conflict of interest, including possession of multiple identities and other alleged criminal dealings.

The petitioner, MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, alleged among other things that there was a transfer of GH¢2.6 million from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited owned by Rev. Kusi Boateng under a secondary identity – Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

Mr Ablakwa said the petition was seeking to invoke the mandate of CHRAJ under Article 218 of the 1992 Constitution to investigate the “odious conflict of interest” with regard to Rev. Boateng’s position on the National Cathedral board as he “literally paid his own company a staggering GH¢2.6 million for no work done”.

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Speaking in an interview on Asempa FMs Ekosii Sen programmae, the host of Kokrokro morning show on Peace FM, stated that it “wasn’t well thought through” by the government.

He said while the idea of a state cathedral is commendable, the execution and handling of the project have been problematic.

“The idea of a state cathedral was wonderful, and if the country has such an edifice, it would be wonderful” Mr. Kayi said.

However, he lamented that the controversy and the politics about the project is regrettable.

“The brouhaha surrounding it was just not right. I like the idea the state will own such an edifice, but the way it was done as far as money spent is concerned was very embarrassing” he noted.

The government has faced intense scrutiny over the cathedral, particularly after failing to inaugurate the project on March 6.

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Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe has criticised President Nana Akufo-Addo will commit huge funds to the project which could have been invested in better infrastructure.

“That can build a very complex two hospitals anywhere in the country. What is even more ridiculous is that throughout history, what I have read, I have not come across a cathedral built even within ten years. What exactly does the President want to tell us? I don’t understand,” he lamented.

In an interview on Joy News, he questioned why a nation in debt will have its priorities misplaced.

“In the last interview, I said it’s unfortunate that state resources have been wasted on this. It’s a waste, nothing else. This is a nation in debt, this is a nation where the ordinary person’s take-home pay is less than a dollar and you talk about a National Cathedral. I can’t understand it. You have promised people that you are going to build a cathedral, that is how the news came out initially.

“To honour God on certain promises you have made to him, but it turned out to be a different story. By the time we realised, state money was being pumped into it. Look at the amount of money that has been pumped into it,” he stated.

The government has come under fierce criticism over the cathedral after it failed to commission the project on March 6, 2024, as promised.

The Minority in Parliament especially have voiced concerns over the project’s expenditure and lack of transparency in funds allocation.

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According to him, they went there solely to demand answers and remind Ghanaians that, the Akufo-Addo government has failed in its promise to commission the project on March 6, 2024.

“We were not there to mock God. We were only there to ensure that the right thing was done. We only stormed there to remind government of its failed promises,” he said during an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem on Thursday.

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On March 6, some NDC Members of Parliament went to the premises of the National Cathedral to commission the unfinished project, aiming to highlight the government’s failure regarding the controversial project.

As Minority MPs, Mr. Norgbey clarified that, they were demanding full accountability.

He said contractors had abandoned the project due to lack of payment two years ago.

“We are demanding a comprehensive report on how much it has cost the state to replace and compensate some owners of demolished properties and how much is still outstanding, considering that aggrieved demolished property owners such as Waterstone Realty have resorted to the court,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, NDC has called for the immediate termination of the contract, stating that the longer the project remains, the greater the cost to the taxpayer.

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The caucus also want the Secretariat to be closed and the contract terminated to avoid what they describe as further financial loss to the state.

Also, they need an explanation from President Akufo Addo on why he failed to fulfil his promise to God, to Parliament and to the Ghanaian people to commission his US$450 million (GH 5.7 billion) “priority of priorities ” cathedral.

North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa made these demands among others when he led his colleagues to the construction site on March 6, 2024, to address journalists.

The day coincided with President Akufo-Addo’s planned commissioning and opening day for the project which he said was a pledge to God prior to the 2016 election.

In this regard, the caucus satirically commissioned the uncompleted project to remind government for failing to fulfill a promise made to God despite the huge sums of money spent.

It was not just the cathedral but a bible museum and extensive “biblical garden”, among other structures.

The Board of Trustees promised no ordinary museum but the “biggest bible museum in the world“.

The MPs were initially obstructed by some security operatives after marching from Parliament to the cathedral site over claims that it was a security zone.

However, that did not prevent them from voicing their concerns and disappointment in the Akufo-Addo led government.

In attendance was Ningo Prampram MP, Samuel George, Ashiaman MP, Ernest Norgbey, Ketu South MP, Dzifa Gomashie, Asuogyaman MP, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson and NDC National Communication Officer, Sammy Gyamfi.

Read below all the demands of the NDC MPs:

1. An explanation from the President Akufo Addo on why he failed to fulfil his promise to God , to Parliament and to the sovereign Ghanaian people -the promise to commission his US$450 million (GH 5.7 billion) “priority of priorities ” cathedral today 6th March 2024.
2. Full accountability on what happened to our US$58,141,509.52( GH 740million ) why all we see here is the world’s most expensive pit and why the contractors , RIBADE JV abandoned the project for lack of payment 2 years ago .
3. A comprehensive report on how much it has cost the state to do far replace and compensate some owners of demolished properties and how much is still outstanding considering the aggrieved demolished property owners such as Waterstone Realty have resorted to the courts . We note the following properties were recklessly demolished on the orders of the President Akufo Addo: Bungalows for Judges , Judicial Training Institute, Passport Head Office , Scholarship Secretariat , Bungalows for CHRAJ , Waterstone Reality Luxury Apartment Complex , Headquarters of Comsys IT Firm and the Malian Ambassador ‘s Residence,
4. Contract must be immediately terminated to avoid further financial loss to the state . According to the contract , Ghana will have to pay extension of Time Claims, Standing Time Claims , Abortive and Re- Work Cost due to Main Contractor Suspension.
5. Board of Trustees must be dissolved without delay.
6. National Cathedral Secretariat should be immediately closed . So far this Secretariat has received GH225,962,500 .
7. Retrievals from the persons:
   David Adjaye -US$19.6million (GH250million)
   Cary Summers -US$ 6 million (GH76million)
   Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng / Kwabena Adu Gyamfi – GH 2.6million.
8. Publication of the Deloitte audit which was promised on 24th January, 2023 .
9. The NPP Caucus in Parliament should desist from sabotaging the impending Parliamentary Probe after a unanimous Parliamentary resolution. The NPP ‘s unpatriotic conduct by deliberately delaying the submission of names of their members to Rt. Hon . Speaker for the committee to commence work is most condemnable.
10. Appeal to CHRAJ to expedite action and publish the outcome of their investigations following his January 16,2023 petition .
11. The Board of Trustees and the National Cathedral Secretariat account for all private donations so far received, particularly their infamous US operations.
12. All those responsible for this gross financial loss to the state must be prosecuted with immediate effect .
13. Calling for National debate leading to the possibile national consensus on what should happen to the world’s most expensive pit moving forward. Some have suggested a specialist children’s hospital which currently lacks , we also note that recently the Secretary General of the TUC , Dr Anthony Yaw Baah suggesting the place be converted as a hospital.
    

Some Minority Members of Parliament (MPs) led by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, have embarked on a symbolic gesture to commission the uncompleted National Cathedral.

The exercise which took place on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, was to mock the government over its failure to complete the project which it pledged to commission and open today.

The lawmakers did not kowtow to initial attempts by security operatives who were deployed to the site to send them away.

Despite being denied entry to the construction site, the Minority MPs reached an agreement with security personnel to stand at the entrance.

Mr Ablakwa addressed the press to voice their discontent with the ongoing project and its associated costs.

He stated that, their symbolic act of commissioning underscored their critique of the shortcomings in the government’s handling of the project.

“When the act of Parliament had to grind on him [Ofori-Atta], he had to come and beg. Your instructions are that we should not enter, we will not enter, we will stand at the entrance,” Sam George MP for Ningo-Prampram said.

They had balloons of the colours of the Ghana flag arranged in an arch with a ribbon at the ends to hold it in place.

They then cut the ribbon to commission the Cathedral on behalf of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

“We commission this expensive hole, on behalf of Dr Bawumia, President Akufo-Addo and Ken Ofori-Atta,” the declared.

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Watch the video above:

Speaking before the Appointments Committee of Parliament on Tuesday, March 5, the Sekondi Member of Parliament emphasized the considerable state investment already dedicated to the project, stressing the necessity of seeing it through to its conclusion.

Mercer dismissed assertions branding it as the “world’s most expensive hole,” contending that such portrayals fail to recognize its broader national significance.

He emphasized the imperative of national unity in ensuring the project’s successful realization, cautioning against leaving it unfinished after significant state expenditure, which he deemed counterproductive.

Mercer reiterated the importance of efficiently utilizing state resources for the Cathedral’s construction, underlining its potential to positively contribute to the country’s development agenda.

“While we may not have unlimited resources, substantial funding has been allocated to the project, and I believe it is imperative for its completion. The notion that it is the world’s most expensive hole is not acceptable. It stands as a national asset in its current state and must be finalized, in my opinion.”

A member of the Trustees and Executive Director of Salt and Light Ministries, Dr Joyce Aryee has passionately urged Ghanaians to support the project.

In a video posted on the cathedral’s page on X formerly Twitter, she asked Christians, especially to see the cathedral as a manger of Jesus Christ and contribute towards it.

“The Cathedral is a central theme for us Christians in this country. Will it not be wonderful to even see it as a manger for the Lord Jesus Christ’s invasion of planet Earth,” she admonished.

The cathedral which was expected to be commissioned on March 6, 2024, was in fulfilment of a pledge President Akufo-Addo revealed he made to God before winning the 2016 elections.

Upon completion, the 5000-seater Cathedral would provide a sacred space for formal religious activities of the State and symbolise the enormous contribution of faith to nation-building.

The $100-million project, which was designed by renowned architect David Adjaye, has been widely criticised by a number of Ghanaians who consider it a misplaced priority.

The condemnation deepened when the government had to demolish some state property including accommodation for judges at Ridge in Accra to pave way for the construction.

But even as Akufo-Addo’s tenure comes to an end, the project is still at the foundation level.

Listen to Dr Joyce Aryee in the video below:

Kindly send your contribution via our mobile money number on 055 575 0000. God bless you!!! pic.twitter.com/eiQ71LPPb9

— The National Cathedral Ghana (@cathedral_ghana) February 15, 2024

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He further admonished the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral to take issues of accountability around the project seriously in order to elicit the support of the public.

“The National Cathedral should not divide the Ghanaian Christian front. It should not push us to a point where church leaders cannot meet, smile and eat together. We still need a united Christian front in Ghana,” Dr Frimpong said, cautioning that commentaries around the resignations should not cause any disaffection.

Resignations

Rev. Dr Frimpong, who was commenting on the resignations that recently hit the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral in an interview with the Daily Graphic, pleaded that “the church in Ghana must stay united”.

He said “this storm will be over. The National Cathedral challenge will be over, but the church must be united”.

A prototype of the National Cathedral

Touching on commentaries on the resignations so far, Rev. Dr Frimpong cautioned that “we must be careful with the comments and reactions that follow the resignations on the Board of Trustees.”

“Let’s be very careful the way we react.

 At least, if for nothing at all, they deserve dignity, honour and respect,” he said of the high-profile personalities who had since left the board.

He said the intention was to build the cathedral to unite Christians and appealed that in spite of the resignations and how they had featured in the public domain, “Christians in Ghana must remain united”.

Rev. Dr Frimpong said all church leaders in the country must be acknowledged and given due recognition, “whether we are able to construct this National Cathedral or not”.

Transcending regimes

The respected clergyman, who said he was looking forward to the inauguration of the National Cathedral one day “to the glory of the Lord”, stressed that even if it never happened under this current government, since it remained a national cathedral, its construction must transcend a particular regime.

“As for this cathedral, I pray and hope that one day, we will come together and see its dedication to the glory of God.

“If not this regime and the next and the next, the most important thing is that one day, we must have a National Cathedral that gives glory to God, not necessarily any particular individual or particular regime,” he said.

While acknowledging the efforts of the North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, on issues of accountability surrounding the cathedral project, Rev. Dr Frimpong said the board should tell the public what was really happening.

“It is not enough sometimes for the board to just come out to say (that) what the MP was saying was not true, but there are real issues that need clarification,” he said.

He admitted that even though some aspect of the cathedral project was in court, the Board of Trustees needed to set the record straight, and that “there are things that the board can also help the Ghanaian public to know”.

Rev. Dr Frimpong said while waiting for the outcome of the court case, he expected that the board would get some investigations done.

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