In an open letter to President John Mahama, Professor Ransford Gyampo, a Senior Lecturer of Political Science at the University of Ghana, sharply criticized the ongoing debate about the construction of a National Cathedral.
Gyampo questioned whether President Mahama had promised God to build the Cathedral, a plan initially pursued by former President Akufo Addo. He wrote, “Did you promise God that you will build a National Cathedral for Him, should you be elected again as President? Are you the Son of Mr Akufo Addo, like Solomon, the son of David who built a temple for God?”
Gyampo’s letter highlighted concerns about national priorities, urging Mahama to focus on issues that directly affect the Ghanaian populace, rather than continuing a project born from what he termed “private talks” between Akufo Addo and God.
“You were not elected to fulfill Mr Akufo Addo’s private promise to his maker. You didn’t make that promise, and you are not the son of Mr Akufo Addo,” Gyampo stated firmly.
The professor further criticized the financial aspects of the National Cathedral project, calling it an expensive hole that should be covered with the end-of-service benefits of Akufo Addo.
READ ALSO: Mahama Calls for Investigation into $400 Million National Cathedral Project
Gyampo stressed, “If there is money to be sourced elsewhere, let it be sourced for projects that address the immediate needs of the Ghanaian people.”
Emphasizing the urgency of tackling the country’s pressing challenges, Gyampo proposed restructuring the Free SHS programme to ensure its effectiveness, now that school heads could voice concerns freely.
He also called for swift action against corruption, urging Mahama to deal with state looters and officials who have been disrespecting the law. “Let all looters of state money, lands, property etc. be dealt with swiftly and in accordance with the law,” he demanded.
Gyampo ended the letter by once again urging the President to abandon the idea of continuing the National Cathedral project.
He reminded Mahama that the principles behind the 1992 Constitution did not include fulfilling private promises made by presidential candidates.
“Your only thinking about the National Cathedral should be how to cover that expensive hole, using Mr Akufo Addo’s end-of-service entitlements to settle part of the bill,” he concluded.
Don’t miss out! Get your daily dose of Entertainment news and more straight to your phone. Join Ghana Street Journal Whatsapp channel now!
