Ghana’s new president, John Mahama, has announced plans to investigate the controversial National Cathedral project, which has faced accusations of corruption and financial mismanagement.
The initiative, launched under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, aimed to construct a $400 million national cathedral in Accra. However, the project has drawn significant criticism over its exorbitant cost and perceived lack of transparency.
Despite assurances that the cathedral would be funded privately, reports reveal that $58 million of public funds have already been spent. The funds have yielded little progress beyond a vast excavation site, leaving many questioning its feasibility.
The project has ignited heated debates nationwide, with critics highlighting its questionable priority amidst Ghana’s ongoing economic struggles.
President Mahama pledged to initiate a thorough investigation into the project, following a directive from the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
He has also suggested reassessing the project’s scale and cost, stating that they could achieve the project at a more reasonable cost.
In a related development, Ghana’s new Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, has declared an immediate halt to further public funding for the cathedral.
He emphasised eliminating wasteful expenditure as the country grapples with its most severe economic crisis in decades.
Inflation remains stubbornly high at 23.8%, despite a $3bn bailout secured from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last year.
President Mahama faces additional challenges, including tackling unemployment, revitalising the economy, reforming the education sector, and reviewing tax policies.
Ghanaian political analyst David Osabutey, in a previous interview with News Central TV, noted that Ghanaians have high expectations for Mahama’s leadership as he inherits an economy plagued by inflation, a depreciating currency, and soaring unemployment.
While his previous tenure had its criticisms, many believe he represents a more viable alternative to navigate the nation through its current hardships.
