The Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA), a non-partisan civil society organization committed to fostering civic engagement and transparency in governance, has voiced its strong opposition to any plans by the Mahama-led administration to revive the National Cathedral project.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, CenPOA expressed alarm over remarks made by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim. The Minister hinted at ongoing consultations with the National Cathedral Board and suggested the government may consider resuming the controversial project.
CenPOA criticized this development, labeling it a potential betrayal of the trust Ghanaians placed in the current government. The organization emphasized that any use of public funds for the National Cathedral would not only be a breach of campaign promises but also undermine public confidence in the administration’s priorities.
A Legacy of Controversy
The National Cathedral, initially proposed as a personal vow by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has been mired in controversy. During Akufo-Addo’s tenure, approximately $58 million in public funds were reportedly spent on the project, sparking widespread criticism. Despite serving two terms, the former president failed to complete the construction, leaving the project in limbo.
CenPOA reminded the government that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) had campaigned against the project during the 2024 elections, promising to repurpose the site into a 500-unit children’s hospital and fertility center. This promise, reiterated by prominent party figures such as Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, was a key factor in securing public support for the NDC.
A Call for Fiscal Responsibility
In its statement, CenPOA called on the Mahama administration to uphold its commitment to fiscal responsibility and prioritize essential sectors such as healthcare, education, and job creation. “Ghanaians voted for change, with the expectation that wasteful spending on nonessential projects would be curtailed. Any attempt to revive the National Cathedral project would be a direct contradiction of these expectations,” the statement read.
The organization further urged Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim to separate his personal religious beliefs from matters of governance. “As a public official, it is critical to respect the secular nature of the state and avoid entangling religious projects with public administration,” CenPOA noted, warning that such actions could damage the credibility of the NDC government and jeopardize the Minister’s political career.
A Challenge to Former President Akufo-Addo
CenPOA also challenged former President Akufo-Addo to complete the project using private funds, as originally intended. “With his tenure now over, he has ample opportunity to mobilize private resources and fulfill his personal vow to God without burdening the state,” the statement concluded.
Public Sentiment and Trust
The National Cathedral remains a deeply polarizing issue, with many citizens viewing it as emblematic of misplaced priorities in a country grappling with economic challenges. CenPOA’s stance reflects a broader sentiment among Ghanaians who prioritize investments in infrastructure and social services over symbolic projects.
CenPOA has vowed to continue advocating for transparency and accountability, urging the government to honor its promises and focus on initiatives that directly benefit the populace.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
