Renowned legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has publicly demanded an explanation from former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo regarding the use of state funds for the construction of the National Cathedral. According to Kpebu, the revelation that public money was used contradicts the former president’s earlier assurances that the project would be solely funded through private donations.
The National Cathedral, a project envisioned as a national place of worship and unity, has been embroiled in controversy since its inception. When the idea was first announced, Akufo-Addo emphasized that no government funds would be used, assuring Ghanaians that the cathedral would be built through voluntary contributions from individuals, churches, and private institutions. However, recent disclosures have shown that millions of cedis from the national budget were allocated to the project, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability.
Kpebu insists that Akufo-Addo owes the Ghanaian people an explanation as to why state resources were directed toward the project despite his initial promise. He argues that this misrepresentation amounts to a breach of public trust and calls for a full investigation into the financial dealings surrounding the cathedral’s construction. “Ghanaians deserve to know why public funds were spent on a project that was supposed to be privately financed. Former President Akufo-Addo must come out and explain this contradiction,” Kpebu asserted.
The controversy surrounding the National Cathedral is not just about its funding but also its soaring costs. Initially estimated at $100 million, reports indicate that the project’s total cost has now exceeded $400 million. With Ghana facing economic hardships, including high inflation, a struggling currency, and mounting national debt, critics argue that the government should have prioritized essential infrastructure projects and social services over a religious monument.
In December 2024, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) recommended a forensic audit into the project, citing possible corruption and abuse of power. The commission suggested that those responsible for financial mismanagement should face legal consequences. This development has intensified calls for accountability, with many citizens and civil society organizations demanding greater transparency in how public funds were utilized.
As of now, former President Akufo-Addo has not publicly responded to Kpebu’s demand for clarification. The Ghanaian public, however, continues to push for answers, emphasizing the need for integrity and responsibility in government projects. Whether the former president will address these concerns remains to be seen, but the controversy surrounding the National Cathedral is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
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