Controversies Surrounding Ghana’s National Cathedral Project Intensifies

Ghana’s National Cathedral project has been a focal point of national discourse since 2020. Citizens eagerly anticipate its completion while others question its necessity and financial implications amid delays.

During a parliamentary session on Thursday 5th July 2024, Abena Osei Asare, Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, disclosed that the government has allocated GH¢339 million for the National Cathedral project to date. This funding includes GH¢225 million disbursed to the National Cathedral Secretariat and GH¢113 million paid directly to project consultants.

According to the Minister, “A value-for-money audit was conducted in 2021, and Deloitte Ghana initiated a statutory audit of the National Cathedral’s accounts in July 2023, auditors have completed their review up to December 31, 2020, with plans to finalize audits for subsequent years”.

Earlier, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu constituency, questioned the validity of the reported expenditure, citing unaccounted costs for such as compensation for demolished structures, including the residence of the Malian Ambassador, housing for Justices, the Judiciary Training Institute, and the Passport Head Office. He highlighted Legal actions by affected parties seeking redress further complicate the project’s financial landscape.

The MP criticized the project for proceeding without approval from the Public Procurement Authority, emphasizing the need for accountability.
“The financial implications of the National Cathedral project demand a comprehensive parliamentary investigation. Failure to address these concerns would be a disservice to the Ghanaian people, “he said.

In an interview with RGGNEWS, Bernard Oduro Takyi, a chartered economist, while affirming his Christian faith and general support for the National Cathedral, underscored the importance of judicious use of resources. He emphasized the need for thorough cost-benefit analysis, considering himself both a taxpayer and a concerned citizen.

He further stated that, Issues such as transparency, location suitability, and adherence to operational standards must be carefully addressed to protect public trust.

He concluded by suggesting that the amount being spent on the cathedral was unnecessary given Ghana’s broader economic challenges, including debt restructuring and IMF negotiations.

The ongoing controversy surrounding Ghana’s National Cathedral underscores broader concerns about governance, financial oversight, and public accountability.