The former Deputy General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Obiri Boahen, has criticized former President Akufo-Addo for what he describes as misplaced priorities during his tenure, particularly regarding the National Cathedral project.
“Funds for Cathedral Could Have Saved Ghana’s Railway Sector” – Obiri Boahen
Speaking on Neat FM on March 5, 2025, Nana Obiri Boahen condemned the use of state funds for the National Cathedral while Ghana’s railway sector remained underdeveloped.
“How can you use state funds for a cathedral while our railway sector was in a poor state? The money he invested in the cathedral could have been used to revive the railway sector. There was no need for such a project,” Obiri Boahen argued.
He further revealed that he faced heavy criticism for opposing the project from its inception, labeling it a wasteful expenditure in the face of more pressing national needs.
Mahama Raises Concerns Over $400 Million Cathedral Cost
Meanwhile, former President John Dramani Mahama has raised serious questions regarding the $400 million price tag attached to completing the National Cathedral project.
Speaking during a Christian National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at UPSA on January 12, 2025, Mahama compared Ghana’s Cathedral to Nigeria’s Ecumenical Centre, which was built for just $30 million.
“Given the current circumstances Ghana is facing, it makes no sense to undertake such a project at a staggering sum of $400 million,” Mahama stated.
Mahama Suggests Cheaper Alternatives and Public Consensus
Mahama emphasized the importance of completing the Cathedral at a more reasonable cost, suggesting that it should be funded through voluntary contributions rather than draining public resources.
“I believe we can achieve this project at a much more reasonable figure, and together, we can raise the necessary funds,” he said.
“All of us, as Christians, must forge a consensus on how to achieve this project without recourse to public funds.”
National Cathedral Under Scrutiny for Alleged Corruption
In addition to his financial concerns, Mahama has promised a full investigation into the National Cathedral project, which has been tainted by allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement.
The debate over the National Cathedral continues to stir national discourse, as prominent figures question the project’s cost, relevance, and funding source at a time when the nation is grappling with economic challenges.