Accra: The forensic audit report on the National Cathedral project is reportedly prepared and currently under governmental review. As the nation anticipates its release, numerous questions loom over the project, and it is crucial that these are addressed not solely by political party communicators.
According to Ghana Web, there is a direct call to action for the Board of Trustees and the Secretariat of the National Cathedral to be prepared to respond. For years, the defense of the project has been left to NPP communicators, many of whom lack comprehensive facts, documents, or an understanding of the project's inception. This has often resulted in more confusion than clarity. However, the Trustees and Secretariat possess detailed knowledge of the project, including government funding disbursements, their allocation, contractor procurement processes, architectural and consultancy fees, the roles of state and church, and the reasons behind project delays.
The Trustees are reminded that this project was not merely political but a sacred trust. Their silence could be perceived as guilt, especially if the forensic report uncovers procurement breaches, cost overruns, or unjustified payments. Unlike political defenders, only the Board can elucidate the spiritual and national covenant dimensions of the Cathedral, which was never meant to be a political project.
To proactively address potential issues, the Board is advised to reconvene urgently, organize their documents, and prepare a fact-based response team comprising Trustees, project managers, accountants, and lawyers. Transparency and accountability are emphasized, with a willingness to apologize for any administrative lapses or judgment errors. An honest acknowledgment of mistakes would earn more respect than a defensive stance.
Ultimately, as the report's release approaches, the Trustees must be ready to account for the project they initiated, led, and asked the nation to support. The public's concern is not with the idea of a National Cathedral itself but with the lack of accountability, especially when public funds are at stake in economically challenging times. The nation awaits their response.