By Ashiadey Dotse
Honorable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has expressed mixed feelings about the recent report by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) on the controversial National Cathedral project.
Speaking during a live interview on GTVBreakfast with Kafui Dey on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, Ablakwa stated that the report vindicates his long-standing concerns about the project’s lack of transparency, violations of procurement laws, and mismanagement of public funds.
According to Ablakwa, CHRAJ’s findings confirm that the procurement processes for the project were illegal and that the contracts awarded should be nullified. He noted that contrary to initial claims that the National Cathedral would be privately funded, taxpayers’ money was used without parliamentary approval.
However, Ablakwa criticized CHRAJ’s handling of evidence related to allegations of double identity involving Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng, a key figure in the project. The report relied solely on passport records and overlooked evidence from other databases, including those of the National Identification Authority and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, which Ablakwa claims show conflicting identities.
“This double identity issue, which involves different names, birthdates, and documents, is not just an administrative error; it borders on criminality,” Ablakwa said. He emphasized that the High Court had previously ruled that such discrepancies could not be dismissed as aliases.
The MP expressed disappointment over the involvement of respected clergy in what he described as a “hot mess.” He criticized the government for failing to follow due process, cautioning that this scandal could have been avoided had transparency and accountability been prioritized.
The CHRAJ report also highlighted the project’s lack of progress despite significant expenditure. Ablakwa revealed that over $58 million has been spent, yet the construction site remains undeveloped. He called for the immediate cancellation of the project and urged the President to dissolve the secretariat overseeing it.
Additionally, Ablakwa demanded compensation for individuals and organizations whose properties were demolished to make way for the project, including the Malian Embassy and other state institutions.
The North Tongu MP concluded by urging further investigations and prosecutions where necessary. He called on board members who initially raised concerns about the project to provide evidence during investigations. “This is a lesson in corporate governance,” he stated.
The CHRAJ report, though damning, leaves many questions unanswered, and Ablakwa insists that accountability must extend to the highest levels, including the President.
Ablakwa has urged immediate action to halt further financial losses, prosecute those implicated, and restore public trust. As the nation awaits the government’s response, many will be watching closely to see whether the recommendations in the CHRAJ report are fully implemented.
