Mahama: Forensic Audit to Decide the Fate of the National Cathedral Project
Mahama says government will chart a new path for the National Cathedral after an independent forensic audit, as Christian Council calls for a more accountable, inclusive, and economically realistic approach.
- Mahama awaits forensic audit findings before deciding the cathedral’s future
- Christian Council urges renewed commitment with transparency and broader funding
- President says current $400m cost is unrealistic and calls for a more modest national worship centre
President John Dramani Mahama says his government will base its final decision on the future of the National Cathedral on the findings of an ongoing forensic audit, underscoring the importance of transparency, broad national input, and a cost structure that reflects Ghana’s economic realities.
He made the remarks when the Christian Council paid a courtesy call on him at the Jubilee House.
The Council urged government to reaffirm its commitment to the project but under a more transparent, accountable, and inclusive framework.
Led by Vice Chairman Rev. Enoch Thompson, the Council acknowledged the country’s economic constraints but argued that a properly managed cathedral could serve as a timeless spiritual and cultural symbol.
They proposed three key steps: a renewed national commitment to the project, diversified funding involving churches, the private sector, and international partners, and a clear vision of the cathedral as an interdenominational national monument.
President Mahama noted that although the Board of Trustees had already conducted a standard audit, its findings raised enough red flags to justify a deeper, independent forensic review.
“The board of trustees ordered an audit, which was published, and it revealed some issues,” he said. “As President, I instructed that a forensic audit be carried out. We need to understand exactly what happened before deciding the next step.”
While affirming his belief in the value of a national place of worship, Mahama insisted that such a project must be grounded in collective agreement and transparency. He recalled his own involvement in church-building efforts, including fundraising for the Ringway Gospel Centre and constructing ten rural church temples, stressing that consensus on the scope and cost is essential.
He criticised the current projected cost of $400 million as unrealistic given Ghana’s economic situation, suggesting instead a more modest national worship space capable of hosting major events such as national thanksgiving services.
Mahama assured the Christian Council that once the forensic audit is completed, his administration will engage the broader Christian community to chart a transparent, affordable, and dignified path forward for the cathedral project.
