The Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA), a non-partisan, non-governmental civil organisation founded to promote civic engagement and participation in public administration, has expressed deep concern over recent comments made by Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, regarding the National Cathedral project.
In a statement, CenPOA asserted that any attempt by the government to reintroduce the project by investing public funds would amount to political dishonesty and a serious betrayal of the trust placed in the Mahama-led administration by Ghanaians.
CenPOA argued that the project was originally a personal religious vow made by former President Akufo-Addo, who failed to complete it despite serving two terms in office.
“It is worth noting that the project became a major point of political contention during the 2024 elections. The now-ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) explicitly opposed the project, vowing to repurpose it into a 500-unit children’s hospital and fertility centre. This was publicly communicated in a Facebook post by Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, then Director of Elections and IT for the NDC,” the statement read.
In light of this, CenPOA finds the Minister’s recent remarks inconsistent with the NDC’s stated position and urges the government to stay true to its commitment to reset Ghana’s priorities. Many Ghanaians voted for this administration with the understanding that public funds would no longer be wasted on non-essential projects like the National Cathedral, particularly at the expense of critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and job creation.
CenPOA further stated that if the Minister’s remarks were intended as personal opinion, it respectfully reminds him that, in his official capacity, he must refrain from imposing personal religious beliefs on matters of governance and public administration.
Blurring the lines between religion and state affairs could have serious consequences for his political career and the credibility of the NDC government.
The organisation also advised former President Akufo-Addo to fulfil his vow to God using private means, stating, “With his tenure now concluded, he has the opportunity and time to mobilise private support to complete the project, in line with his original intent.”
