'Good idea, badly implemented' - Mahama Ayariga on National Cathedral

Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, has described the National Cathedral project as a good idea that was poorly implemented.

Speaking during his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27, 2026, Ayariga said he had no objection to the concept of establishing a national place of worship for Ghana’s Christian community.

“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.

‘Why the rush?’ - Minority protests vetting of Supreme Court nominees

According to him, the proposal was understandable given the important role religion plays in Ghanaian society, despite the country’s status as a secular state.

Ayariga, however, expressed concerns about aspects of the project’s implementation, including the choice of location.

He said should Parliament approve his nomination; he would engage leaders of the Christian community to determine whether there is still an interest in completing the project.

He added that any decision to revive the National Cathedral would also require discussions with President John Dramani Mahama.

Ayariga’s position indicates support for the principle behind the project while calling for consultations and a possible reassessment of how it should be pursued.

Watch the video below

'Good idea, badly executed’ — Mahama Ayariga’s remarks on the National Cathedral

MRA/VPO

Politicians who steal millions should not think they are above goat thieves - Mahama Ayariga