By King Amoah
In a thought-provoking interview in Kumasi, the Ashanti region, Very Rev. Jubilant Boakye Danquah, a former Chaplain to the US Military Hospital, a retired Methodist Church minister, and an influential community leader, voiced his concerns over the proposed cancellation of the National Cathedral Project by the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
His commentary comes in light of the party’s indications during their 2024 election campaign that, if returned to power, they would halt the project, which they argue was funded by resources meant for other national developments.
Rev. Boakye Danquah shared that the construction of the National Cathedral, despite being mired in political contention, presents a significant cultural and social opportunity for Ghana. He emphasized that the Cathedral could serve as a monumental venue for important national events—ranging from presidential inaugurations and state gatherings to national awards and state funerals.
In his view, such a facility would enhance the country’s stature, drawing parallels to the impact of similar national cathedrals in countries like the United States, France, and Germany.
He highlighted that these structures not only serve as places of worship but also as cultural landmarks that foster national unity and pride.
Furthermore, Rev. Boakye Danquah argued against the NDC’s narrative that the project represents an individual’s promise to God, suggesting that it has evolved beyond personal commitments and has entered the realm of national interest. He believes that scrapping the project, which was initially envisioned to unify the nation, may ultimately stifle long-term social and economic benefits that such a landmark could generate.
The former chaplain categorically stated that “self-promises made to God should not become an individual burden on the state,” indicating that the project, regardless of its origins, has grown into a national endeavor that should be nurtured rather than dismantled.
While acknowledging the challenges and controversies surrounding the funding and execution of the Cathedral project, he called on current President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider any intentions of cancellation. “Completing the National Cathedral Project would not only honor the pledge made but would also provide a robust venue for national dignity as well as cultivate a sense of shared identity among Ghanaians,” he added.
