Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed his willingness to support efforts to continue and complete Ghana’s National Cathedral project if the initiative receives the backing of President John Dramani Mahama and Parliament.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, the Bawku Central Member of Parliament said he had no objection to the concept of a national cathedral, given Ghana’s deeply religious character.
Mr Ayariga, however, drew a distinction between the idea of constructing a national cathedral and the manner in which the project was implemented under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
In his view, the concept was worthwhile but the execution raised significant concerns.
“I think it was a good idea that was badly executed,” he said.
Mr Ayariga explained that, if approved as Minister, he would first engage leaders of the Christian community to establish whether they remained committed to the project.
He said that should the Christian community maintain its commitment and President Mahama support the continuation of the project, he would wholeheartedly back efforts to mobilise support towards its completion.
“If they remain committed to the construction of a national cathedral, I will engage the president, and if it is the wish of the president, I will wholeheartedly support and mobilize for the project to be continued, and God willing, completed,” he said.
Despite his support for the broader idea, Mr Ayariga raised concerns about the location chosen for the facility and the financing model adopted for its construction.
He argued that the selected location could contribute to traffic congestion and suggested that alternative sites, including available land along the coast, could have been considered.
His comments suggest that any attempt to revive the National Cathedral project under the current administration could involve a review of its location, financing arrangements and implementation strategy.
The National Cathedral project, initiated under the Akufo-Addo administration, has been the subject of significant public debate over its cost, funding and execution.
