A recent audit conducted by Deloitte and Touche has uncovered a significant discrepancy in consultancy payments made to Sir David Adjaye & Associates, the architectural firm responsible for designing the National Cathedral. According to Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications, the audit revealed a GHS 4.9 million gap between the payments recorded by the Office of the President and the amount reported by the firm.
Key Findings of the Audit
– Discrepancy in Payments: The Office of the President confirms payments totaling GHS 113,040,564.86, while Sir David Adjaye & Associates reports receiving GHS 117,972,656.00, resulting in an unexplained difference of GHS 4,932,091.14.
– Additional Irregularities: The audit also found other irregularities, including:
– Procurement Breaches: Sir David Adjaye’s firm was paid GHS 15.7 million before contract approval and PPA clearance of a GHS 5.85 million contract.
– Unapproved Additional Work: USD 12,430,221 was spent on design changes and additions without formal contract variations.
– Unexplained Contract Fees: Mobilization fee of USD 1.5 million and “Use/After Care” fee of USD 950,000 lacked documentation.
Government Action
In response to the audit findings, the government has taken decisive action, including :
– Dissolving the National Cathedral Secretariat: Effective May 1, 2025, the secretariat has been dissolved.
– Terminating the Contract: Legal steps are underway to terminate the project’s contract.
– Forensic Audit: The Attorney-General has been directed to conduct a forensic audit into the project.
Reaction to the Audit Findings
While the audit findings raise concerns about transparency and accountability, some have come to the defense of Sir David Adjaye, describing him as a “great architect” who has devoted his time to helping Ghana. Critics, however, argue that the government’s actions and lack of transparency are the real issues.