Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide to Ghana’s President-elect John Dramani Mahama, has pledged that the new government will prioritize the recovery of over $58 million allegedly misused on the National Cathedral project. Speaking during an interview on Channel One TV on December 10, Mogtari outlined the administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability and fiscal responsibility.
The Controversial Cathedral Project
The National Cathedral, initiated under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, was envisioned as a monumental Christian worship centre and a symbol of national unity. However, the project has been marred by delays, controversy, and allegations of financial mismanagement, becoming a flashpoint in public discourse.
Mogtari questioned the lack of tangible progress on the project despite the significant financial investment. She argued that the funds could have been better utilized to address pressing national issues.
Plans for Accountability
The Mahama administration plans to launch a comprehensive audit and investigation into the project to uncover the full extent of financial irregularities. Mogtari emphasized the importance of tracing how the $58 million was utilized and holding individuals accountable for any malfeasance.
“It is a history that we don’t want to remember too often. We want to ask what the money was used for, who it went to, and how. $58 million expended on that project is questionable, and I am sure there is even more. Because they are in government, they are hiding how much has been expended,” she stated.
Future Plans for the Cathedral Land
Mogtari also hinted at potential plans to repurpose the land designated for the cathedral to serve more practical and beneficial uses for the public.
“How can you expend $58 million and have nothing to show for it? There are a lot of things that we intend to do with that piece of land, and I think we should focus on recovering the resources and putting them to better use,” she concluded.
A Renewed Focus on Transparency
This pledge to recover the funds aligns with the Mahama administration’s broader agenda of promoting transparency and tackling corruption as it prepares to take office.
