I'll not meddle in chieftaincy matters - Mahama Ayariga

Minister-designate for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga has pledged to meet expectations once he is confirmed in office. He has assured the Mamprugu Traditional Council and the Ghanaian people that he would perform his duties fairly, impartially and neutrally if approved by Parliament. This assurance came as he faced concerns from the Mamprugu Traditional Council during his vetting by Parliament's Appointments Committee on Thursday, August 27.

Ayariga mentioned that his Mamprusi roots - his mother and uncles - have a significant role in his upbringing and that he believes he was well-trained. Therefore, he would vindicate his family by living up to their expectations. He also vowed to live up to the expectations of his grandfather, the Nayiri.

Commenting on the National Cathedral project introduced by the Akufo-Addo administration, Ayariga praised the idea but criticized its execution. He stated that Ghana's deeply religious nature makes places of worship integral to national life. He noted the prevalence of churches, mosques, and other religious facilities nationwide. Thus, he saw no fundamental issue with the concept of a National Cathedral. However, he expressed concerns about the project's implementation, particularly its location.

He indicated that any decision on the project's future should involve consultations with the Christian community and the President before steps are taken towards completion. Although he had reservations about the past implementation, Ayariga supported the idea of a national cathedral for Ghana's Christian community. He assured the House that if approved, he would engage the Christian community's leadership and, if they persist with the project, engage with the President to mobilize funds for its construction.