The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has called for a forensic audit and possible prosecution of the trustees of the National Cathedral project, citing breaches of Ghana’s procurement laws and concerns over financial mismanagement.
This follows an investigation triggered by allegations made by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a staunch critic of the project.
The findings, outlined in a report dated November 22, 2024, uncovered multiple issues related to the awarding of contracts and the management of funds for the controversial project.
Procurement Violations: Contract Declared Void
Central to CHRAJ’s report is the construction contract awarded to Ribade Company Ltd., which was found to be in violation of the Procurement Act. CHRAJ described the contract as “void ab initio” due to non-compliance with mandatory provisions of Act 663, as amended by Act 914.
“The Board of the Public Procurement Authority should intervene to cancel the contract for the construction of the National Cathedral between the National Cathedral and Ribade Company, as it has the power to do so under the Procurement Act,” the report emphasised.
The Commission warned that such breaches risk damaging Ghana’s international reputation, especially given the global attention surrounding the project and Ribade Company Ltd.’s involvement.
Concerns Over GH₵225 Million Expenditure
The investigation also scrutinised the use of GH₵225,962,500.00 in public funds, allocated as “seed money” for site preparation, contractor mobilisation, fundraising efforts, consultancy services, and symposia as of May 31, 2022.
CHRAJ expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in how the funds were managed. It urged the auditor-general to conduct a forensic audit to determine whether the expenditures represented value for money, noting that the project remains incomplete.
“Public interest dictates that there ought to be value for money in project execution. Unfortunately, this Commission has no expertise to determine whether there has been value for money, considering the project remains in the same state,” CHRAJ stated.
Potential Legal Action Against Trustees
CHRAJ recommended further investigations into the conduct of the National Cathedral’s Board of Trustees and their possible prosecution for awarding contracts in violation of procurement laws.
“The Commission further recommends further investigation and possible prosecution of the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral, who superintended the award of the contract to Ribade Company in disregard of Act 663 as amended,” the report urged.
Exoneration of Rev. Kusi-Boateng
While highlighting procurement breaches, CHRAJ exonerated Reverend Victor Kusi-Boateng, the Secretary to the National Cathedral Board of Trustees, from allegations of possessing dual identities and engaging in a conflict of interest.
According to the report, Rev. Kusi-Boateng holds only one passport issued under the name Kwabena Adu Gyamfi. CHRAJ also dismissed claims of financial improiety involving JNS Talent Centre Limited, a company allegedly linked to him, stating there was no evidence of services rendered or payments made under questionable circumstances.
Implications for the National Cathedral Project
The findings add to the growing controversy surrounding the National Cathedral, a project intended as a symbol of national unity and faith but now mired in allegations of corruption and inefficiency. Critics, including Mr. Ablakwa, have consistently questioned the project’s transparency and relevance amidst Ghana’s ongoing economic challenges.
Government and Trustees Yet to Respond
As of now, neither the government nor the National Cathedral’s Board of Trustees has officially responded to CHRAJ’s findings and recommendations.
CHRAJ emphasised that addressing these issues is crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring compliance with Ghana’s laws. It warned that the lack of adherence to procurement rules could lead to significant embarrassment for the country.
Background
The CHRAJ investigation followed a petition by Mr. Ablakwa, who alleged corruption, abuse of power, and a lack of transparency in the National Cathedral’s construction. His claims included suspicions of dual identities for Rev. Kusi-Boateng and irregular financial transactions linked to the project.
Despite being cleared of the allegations against him, Rev. Kusi-Boateng’s involvement and the broader controversies continue to fuel debates over the project’s management.
The CHRAJ report has intensified calls for accountability, with stakeholders urging swift action to address the breaches and ensure that public funds are safeguarded in the future.