Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is the President of Ghana
In the evolving landscape of Ghana’s democratic discourse, it is unfortunate and deeply concerning that certain individuals—many of whom identify as Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists—would resort to disseminating falsehoods for political gain.
Recent allegations and misleading narratives targeting the former President of Ghana, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and the National Cathedral Project are not only baseless but constitute a direct attack on national unity, religious tolerance, and the dignity of public service.
Unnecessary Division and Public Distrust
In the lead-up to and aftermath of the December 7, 2024 general elections, orchestrated misinformation—particularly from prominent voices within the ruling party—cast unwarranted aspersions on the vision and execution of the National Cathedral Project. These narratives sought to malign the former President and tarnish the reputation of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), causing unnecessary division and public distrust.
As a concerned citizen, I believe it is time to defend the truth and call out these calculated efforts to discredit a national initiative rooted in Ghana’s spiritual and cultural aspirations. The National Cathedral is not just a building; it is a symbol of faith, national reconciliation, and unity, intended to serve all Ghanaians regardless of religious or political affiliation.
Unfounded Accusations: A Threat to National Integrity
The baseless accusations directed at President Akufo-Addo and the Board of Trustees—comprising revered religious leaders such as Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, Archbishop Charles Palmer-Buckle, Most Rev. Bishop Justice Ofei Akrofi, Most Rev. T.K. Awotwe, Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Martey, Rev. Dr. Joyce Aryee, and Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng—are not only defamatory but also constitute character assassination.
These individuals voluntarily committed their time, credibility, and spiritual leadership to advance a project that stands to become a lasting legacy for the nation. Misrepresenting their efforts for political propaganda is both unpatriotic and morally unjustifiable.
The Power and Danger of Misinformation
In today’s digital age, where information spreads rapidly, the damage caused by misinformation can be far-reaching:
• Undermines public trust in institutions and leadership
• Destroys reputations built over decades of service
• Incites division and potential social instability
• Erodes media credibility and objective discourse
When falsehoods are repeated often enough, they begin to shape public perception—regardless of their truth. This is why truth, accuracy, and evidence-based reporting must become the standard in our national conversations.
The National Cathedral: A Legacy Beyond Politics
The National Cathedral was envisioned as a national monument and spiritual hub that transcends partisan politics. Once completed, it will not only serve religious purposes but also:
• Act as a national landmark for unity and peace
• Provide a space for national reflection and commemoration
• Become a tourism destination, generating foreign exchange and economic activity
• Serve as a lasting symbol of Ghana’s multi-faith tolerance
Attempts to delegitimize this project through conspiracy theories and politically motivated attacks do a disservice to the nation’s collective interest.
Let’s Defend the Truth and Promote Civic Responsibility
It is the duty of every patriotic Ghanaian to uphold truth and demand integrity in public discourse. The media must resist the temptation of sensationalism and instead focus on factual, balanced reporting. Citizens must take it upon themselves to fact-check information before spreading it. Political actors must refrain from using sacred national initiatives as tools of manipulation. We must build a culture that values truth, critical thinking, and media literacy, enabling Ghanaians to discern fact from fiction. Disinformation campaigns, regardless of their source, must be confronted and condemned.
Unsubstantiated and Unjust
The accusations levelled against former President Nana Akufo-Addo and the National Cathedral’s Board of Trustees are unsubstantiated and unjust. These efforts to malign the legacy of a project rooted in peace, spirituality, and national unity must be unequivocally rejected.
The National Cathedral is a symbol of what Ghana aspires to be—united in diversity, rich in faith, and grounded in national purpose. We must not allow politically driven falsehoods to undermine its significance or discredit those who have committed themselves to its realization.
Let us stand for truth, defend the legacy of selfless leadership, and support projects that reflect the soul of our nation.
