The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has recommended a forensic audit of the National Cathedral project and potential prosecution of its trustees. This follows an investigation into allegations of corruption, procurement breaches, and abuse of power related to the controversial project.
Procurement Breaches and Findings
CHRAJ’s report, dated November 22, 2024, revealed significant violations of Ghana’s Procurement Act (Act 663 as amended by Act 914), particularly in awarding the construction contract to Ribade Company Ltd. The contract was deemed “void ab initio” for failing to adhere to mandatory procurement procedures.
In its recommendations, CHRAJ called on the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) to cancel the contract, citing its authority under the Procurement Act.
Call for Forensic Audit
The report also urged the Auditor-General to conduct a forensic audit of the project, highlighting concerns about the GHS225.96 million spent as of May 31, 2022, on activities such as site preparation, contractor mobilization, fundraising in the United States, consultancy fees, and symposia. CHRAJ emphasized the need to ensure value for money, noting that the project remains incomplete despite the significant expenditure.
Reputational Risks and Legal Actions
The report raised concerns about the potential reputational damage to Ghana due to procurement law violations, particularly given the international profile of the project and Ribade Company Ltd. CHRAJ recommended further investigations and possible prosecution of the Board of Trustees for overseeing the award of the contract in breach of procurement laws.
Petition by MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
The investigation was initiated by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who alleged corruption, abuse of power, and lack of transparency in the project’s execution. Ablakwa’s petition also accused Reverend Victor Kusi-Boateng, Secretary to the National Cathedral Board of Trustees, of conflict of interest and using a secondary identity (Kwabena Adu Gyamfi) to transfer GH¢2.6 million from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited, a company he allegedly owns.
Exoneration of Rev. Victor Kusi-Boateng
CHRAJ cleared Rev. Kusi-Boateng of the allegations, concluding that he holds only one passport under the name Kwabena Adu Gyamfi and has not been issued another with the name Kusi-Boateng. Furthermore, the Commission found no evidence of a GH¢2.6 million payment to JNS Talent Centre Limited for services rendered, effectively exonerating Rev. Kusi-Boateng of conflict of interest claims.
Government’s Response Awaited
Neither the government nor the Board of Trustees has responded to CHRAJ’s findings and recommendations, which have intensified public scrutiny over the project’s management and financial accountability.
