President Mahama Proposes Completion of National Cathedral Without State Funds
President Mahama calls for private funding, cost efficiency, and transparency in revisiting controversial project
- Mahama insists the National Cathedral project will be completed without using state funds
- Proposes completing the project at a more reasonable cost, inspired by similar international examples
- Suggests reconsidering the current site for the Cathedral as part of a thorough reassessment
President John Mahama has pledged to revisit the controversial National Cathedral project, promising a reassessment of its costs and a commitment to private funding.
Speaking at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service in Accra on Sunday, January 12, Mr. Mahama criticized the estimated $400 million cost of the project, emphasizing the need for a more practical approach.
Citing the $30 million National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja as a benchmark, he stated, “We can achieve this project at a much more reasonable figure and collectively raise the necessary funds.”
He also hinted at the possibility of relocating the Cathedral, depending on his administration’s final review. “Reconsideration might even include changing the current site chosen for the project,” he said.
Importantly, Mr. Mahama assured that state funds would not be utilized for the construction, emphasizing the need for consensus among Christians to achieve the project through private means.
The Cathedral, initiated by President Akufo-Addo as a fulfillment of a promise to God, has faced controversies over state funding, leadership scandals, and administrative setbacks. These challenges prompted CHRAJ to recommend a forensic audit by the Auditor-General to uncover potential misconduct.
Mr. Mahama’s reassessment promises a transparent and cost-effective approach to completing the project, aiming to rebuild trust and align the initiative with Ghana’s current economic realities.
