$400 million for a Cathedral is excessive – Mahama calls for forensic audit

President of the Republic of Ghana John Dramani Mahama has demanded that the Christian community be consulted extensively before any decisions are made on the proposed national cathedral, stating that the project must be financially responsible and represent the opinions of all citizens.

Speaking at the Christian Council of Ghana’s formal visit to Jubilee House, the President stated that while interdenominational places of worship are vital, their scope and cost must be properly assessed.

“I do believe in building an interdenominational place where we can worship, but it must be done in consultation with all of us. All of us must decide how we want to do it, what the scope is, and how much it will cost,” President Mahama stated.

President Mahama spoke about national issues during the visit, such as corruption and the anti-LGBTQ bill, but he emphasized that the national cathedral project would not move forward until all stakeholders had been fully engaged.

The rumored $400 million budget for the cathedral worried President Mahama, who said it was exorbitant considering the nation’s current problems. He gave Nigeria’s ecumenical center as an example of a more economical strategy, describing it as “a decent, beautiful place” that was constructed for $40 million.

He stated that extensive conversations would be held to decide how best to construct a national house of worship that is “decent” and representative of the Christian community following the completion of a forensic audit of the planned project.

Additionally, the President emphasized that the cathedral may function as a landmark in Ghanaian culture and architecture, highlighting the significance of religion in the country.

Source: Ghanatodayonline.com