Parliament has taken decisive action by forming a special committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the National Cathedral project and all associated matters. The move comes in response to a private member's motion filed by six minority members, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressing concern over the stalled project despite a substantial injection of approximately $58 million.
The National Cathedral project, which began a year ago, has faced significant delays, leading to mounting liability and interest costs. Andrew Amoako Asiamah, the Second Deputy Speaker, passionately adopted the motion and urged the house to approve it under Order 919, which empowers the house to establish a special or ad hoc committee to investigate matters of public importance.
The project itself is marked by controversy and escalating costs, making it the most expensive undertaking in Ghana's history. The initial estimated cost of $100 million has skyrocketed to a staggering $400 million, with the figure continuing to rise. However, the lack of visible progress on the construction site has raised doubts about whether the $58 million expenditure has been properly accounted for. The National Cathedral project has remained abandoned since March of the previous year, compounding concerns and leading to further cost escalations. According to Ablakwa, the project's total liabilities and suspension claims alone amount to approximately $52 million, adding to the already substantial financial burden.
The formation of the ad hoc committee aims to shed light on the true status of the National Cathedral project, scrutinize the expenses, and provide appropriate recommendations to the House. With public funds involved and the magnitude of the project's costs, the investigation holds significant importance in ensuring transparency, accountability, and responsible management of resources.
As the inquiry unfolds, the committee's findings will be crucial in understanding the factors contributing to the project's delays and the reasons behind the escalating costs. The outcome will help guide the House in making informed decisions on how to proceed with the National Cathedral project.
The establishment of the ad hoc committee is a positive step towards addressing the concerns raised by parliamentarians and the public regarding the National Cathedral project. The investigation will bring much-needed clarity and oversight to this major national endeavor, and its outcomes will be closely monitored by the nation. Ultimately, the goal is to safeguard public funds, ensure proper project management, and pave the way for a transparent and successful completion of the National Cathedral.
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