Ghana’s President John Mahama to Investigate National Cathedral Amid Corruption Allegations

Ghana’s newly sworn-in President, John Mahama, has pledged to investigate the controversial National Cathedral project, which has been marred by allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement. The $400 million initiative, launched under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has drawn widespread criticism over its exorbitant costs and perceived lack of transparency.

Despite initial promises of private funding, reports reveal that $58 million in public funds have already been spent, resulting in little progress beyond a vast excavation site in Accra. This revelation has fueled public outcry, especially as the nation grapples with severe economic challenges.

President Mahama, responding to a directive from the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the project. He also suggested reassessing the project’s scale and cost, advocating for a more reasonable approach.

Public Funding Halted In a decisive move, Ghana’s new Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, announced an immediate halt to further public funding for the National Cathedral. He emphasized the need to eliminate wasteful expenditure as Ghana battles its worst economic crisis in decades.

Economic Challenges Ahead Inflation in Ghana remains high at 23.8%, despite a $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last year. President Mahama faces additional challenges, including unemployment, a depreciating currency, and the need for reforms in education and taxation.

Ghanaian political analyst David Osabutey remarked that while Mahama’s previous tenure faced criticism, many citizens view him as a viable leader to navigate the country through its current hardships.