Government dissolves National Cathedral Secretariat; Special Prosecutor probing project contracts

The Minister for Government Communications, Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, says the National Cathedral Secretariat established under the previous administration has been dissolved, with all outstanding contracts and procurement issues now under investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).

Mr Kwakye Ofosu made this known in an interview on Channel One TV on 8 April 2025, where he made it clear that the government would not spend any more public funds on the controversial project, which he said would require an estimated $400 million to complete.

“This government will not commit additional public funds to the National Cathedral project,” he said.

“We respect the religious significance of such an edifice, but our position is firm. If churches or private entities wish to complete it using their own resources, they are welcome to do so. The state will not bear the financial burden.”

Mr Kwakye Ofosu explained that the project is no longer being managed by any government body, as the Secretariat set up to coordinate its activities no longer exists.

“What remains are outstanding procurement issues and contractual obligations, which are being reviewed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. If any wrongdoing is found, those responsible will be held accountable,” he said.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu rejected suggestions that the government should continue funding the project to avoid wasting the millions of cedis already spent. He argued that such calls ignored the country’s current economic conditions.

“Estimates suggest completing the Cathedral would require an additional $400 million. At a time when Ghanaians are demanding better roads, schools, and hospitals, we cannot justify such an expenditure on what is essentially a non-priority project,” he said.

He urged churches and other faith-based organisations that consider the project necessary to mobilise their own resources to complete it.

Responding to criticism that the government’s stance reflects a lack of support for religious interests, Mr Kwakye Ofosu dismissed that view.

“This government respects all religious beliefs,” he said.

“We have supported faith-based initiatives in education and healthcare, where they directly benefit citizens. A national cathedral, while symbolic, is not a pressing need for the average Ghanaian struggling with economic challenges.”

On the future of the land allocated for the project, Mr Kwakye Ofosu said no decision had been taken yet.

“For now, the site remains as it is. Our priority is to ensure transparency in how previous funds were used. Once the Office of the Special Prosecutor concludes its investigations, we will determine the next steps, always in consultation with relevant stakeholders,” he said.

The National Cathedral project, initiated by former President Nana Akufo-Addo, has been one of the most debated public projects in recent years, attracting controversy over its cost, relevance, and management.