Founder of the defunct UT Bank and UT Holdings, Capt. Rtd. Prince Kofi Amoabeng, has stated that the initiation of the National Cathedral project is a camouflage scheme set up by government.
Speaking to Joy News he explained that the initiative has been put forth by the Akufo-Addo-led administration as a way to rip Ghanaians off their labour.
He raised concerns regarding the government’s failure to prioritize effectively.
To him, the significant investment in the National Cathedral, a project he deemed non-urgent, could have instead been directed towards other paramount stalled projects across the nation.
“Is a 419 really? Of course. How can they put state money and whatever funding that they said they had into putting that pit there? But you want me to have enemies in the government. I’m not trying to be enemies for you.That’s why I’m saying 419. 419 is when they dupe you of your money, you don’t get anything out of it. So let’s leave it at 419. But do you think there’s a use we could put that to in the future? I don’t. I think we have to consult architects and things like that. Maybe they could put up some edifice and use the whatever there as a basement or.”
Controversies and opposition have surrounded the National Cathedral project, with questions raised about its relevance given Ghana’s economic challenges.
Despite public resistance, President Akufo-Addo remains steadfast in his commitment to proceed with the construction.
To address recent concerns, the Board of Trustees opted for a “normal statutory audit” in January.
A proposal from the Minority caucus suggested a comprehensive investigation into the project and related matters.
In response, the audit firm Deloitte, which handled the registration of the National Cathedral, was tasked with conducting the audit.
The committee overseeing the process aims to provide suitable recommendations for Parliament’s consideration.
Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, Chairman of the Board, stated, “The Board is already in discussions to engage Deloitte, which accepted to be the auditors when the National Cathedral was registered, to commence the normal statutory audit”.
Amidst these developments, accusations have arisen against Rev. Kusi Boateng, Secretary of the Board of Trustees, alleging multiple identities and receiving 2.6 million cedis without rendering any services, as claimed by Okudzeto Ablakwa.