Ghana's Mahama Proposes Review of National Cathedral

President John Dramani Mahama has initiated plans to investigate the controversial National Cathedral project, which has faced scrutiny over allegations of financial mismanagement under the previous administration. Speaking at a National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service on January 12, 2025, he emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating that the project’s estimated cost of $400 million is unreasonable given Ghana's current economic challenges. He proposed that the project's location might be reconsidered and that it should be funded without the use of public funds. Mahama cited the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, built for $30 million, as a benchmark for a more reasonable budget. He assured the Christian community that consultations would take place regarding the future of the Cathedral, which has become a contentious issue in Ghana. The investigation will comply with directives from the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to audit the project's finances.