- Ablakwa accuses Akufo-Addo of deception.
- Public funds used without parliamentary approval.
- Procurement Authority not involved in project.
- GH₵339 million disbursed for National Cathedral.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has strongly condemned President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his dishonesty regarding the funding of the National Cathedral. Ablakwa accused the President of deceiving the public, religious leaders, and even God about the project’s funding sources.
Initially, the President assured that public funds would not be used for the project, but it was later discovered that state funds had been allocated to support the construction. This revelation sparked widespread opposition and criticism, with many questioning the use of public funds without parliamentary approval.
Ablakwa emphasized that the President’s actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the country’s laws. He expressed shock and disappointment at the lack of accountability and due process in the project’s funding.
Ablakwa revealed that he made a Right to Information (RTI) request to the Procurement Authority, which responded that it was not aware of the project and had not been involved in the procurement process. This lack of transparency and accountability is a clear violation of the Constitution, which requires parliamentary approval for the use of public funds.
On July 3, 2024, the Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, Abena Osei Asare, announced in Parliament that GH₵339 million had been disbursed for the National Cathedral project. Ablakwa’s criticism highlights the need for transparency and accountability in government projects, ensuring that public funds are used responsibly and with parliamentary approval.
