Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed support for the idea behind Ghana’s National Cathedral but criticised the manner in which the project was executed.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee for his vetting on Thursday, August 27, 2026, Mr Ayariga said the concept of establishing a national place of worship for Ghana’s Christian community was not inherently problematic.
“I don’t think there is anything wrong with the idea, but I think it was a good idea that was badly implemented,” he said.
The Bawku Central MP said the proposal could be understood within the context of the significant role religion plays in Ghanaian society, even though the country operates as a secular state.
He, however, raised concerns about the implementation of the project, particularly the decision on where the National Cathedral was to be located.
Mr Ayariga indicated that if his nomination is approved by Parliament, he would consult leaders of the Christian community to establish whether there remains a collective interest in completing the project.
He stressed that any move to revive or continue the National Cathedral would also have to be discussed with President John Dramani Mahama.
His comments suggest that while he supports the broader principle of having a national Christian place of worship, he believes the project requires fresh consultations and a possible review of its implementation strategy before any decision is taken on its future.
