Accra: The Managing Editor of the Insight Newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr, has weighed in on President John Dramani Mahama's recent ministerial reshuffle, explaining why some people allegedly wanted the Member of Parliament for Banda, Ahmed Ibrahim, out of government.
According to Ghana Web, Kwesi Pratt shared his insights during a panel discussion on Peace FM's Kokrokoo on August 14, 2026. He noted that the President's decision to reshuffle some ministers was not unexpected, especially following the deaths of two former ministers in a year's interval, aligning with the customs and traditions of the country.
Kwesi Pratt highlighted that Ahmed Ibrahim, who was serving as the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs before being moved to the Ministry of Works, Housing and Water Resources, had been a target of those who wanted him ousted from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government.
Pratt pointed out that comments made by Ahmed Ibrahim regarding the controversial National Cathedral project were a significant factor contributing to the calls for his removal. The issue gained particular prominence during the 2024 general elections, as the National Cathedral became a major topic of public debate.
Pratt elaborated, stating that Ahmed Ibrahim had expressed strong support for the construction of the National Cathedral and warned that those opposing it would face resistance. This stance, according to Pratt, fueled discontent among certain factions who were opposed to the Cathedral project, intensifying calls for Ibrahim's removal. However, rather than being dismissed, Ibrahim was reassigned to a different ministry where his role would not involve the Cathedral.
Ahmed Ibrahim has previously expressed his willingness to support the National Cathedral project if financially viable, while also lamenting the intense criticism it received under the previous administration. In an interview with Adom TV on April 2, 2025, he emphasized his support for religious institutions and his consistent assistance to churches within his constituency.
The National Cathedral project, initiated during former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo's administration, remains incomplete and is currently undergoing an audit to assess expenditures and progress. Ahmed Ibrahim has urged the public to await the audit's outcome before drawing conclusions about the project's viability and benefits.