Akufo-Addo can still lead private sector efforts to build national cathedral as former president – CenPOA

The Centre for Public Opinion and Awareness (CenPOA), a non-partisan civil society organization, has urged former President Nana Akufo-Addo to use his influence to mobilize private funding for the completion of the National Cathedral project rather than relying on public resources.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, CenPOA emphasized that the National Cathedral was initially conceived as a personal religious vow by Akufo-Addo, and with his presidential term now over, he has the time and opportunity to rally private support for the project.

“We encourage former President Akufo-Addo to fulfill his vow to God using private means,” said CenPOA, adding that the former president should mobilize private sector backing in line with his original intent.

CenPOA reiterated its opposition to the use of public funds for the Cathedral project, which has been a source of political controversy.

The organization expressed concerns about recent comments made by Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, suggesting that the government is considering resuming the project.

The statement underscored that any attempt to invest public funds in the National Cathedral would undermine the trust placed in the government by Ghanaians, who voted for the current administration on the promise of prioritizing essential public services over non-essential projects.

CenPOA further urged the government to maintain its commitment to fiscal responsibility, ensuring a clear separation between church and state, while focusing on critical sectors like healthcare, education, and job creation.