Bawumia Backs Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as Commonwealth Leader

Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed immense pride following Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey’s election as the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

In a social media post on October 26, he lauded her groundbreaking achievement.

“Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, I’m thrilled to hear about your election as the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Congratulations on making Ghana proud! Keep shining, and I have no doubt you will excel as always. God bless our homeland, Ghana. God bless the Commonwealth of Nations,” he wrote.

Her election, which took place during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, marks a significant milestone for Ghana, making her the first Ghanaian to lead the 56-member organization.

She will succeed Baroness Patricia Scotland, who is completing her second and final term at the end of 2024.

Ayorkor Botchwey’s appointment follows a consensus among Commonwealth nations to elect an African Secretary-General.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo nominated her, highlighting her commitment to the Commonwealth’s values and her extensive experience in global diplomacy.

“I have strong confidence in Foreign Minister Botchwey to lead our aspirations for renewal and to foster resilient and thriving economies through cooperative action, as emphasized at the 26th CHOGM in Kigali, Rwanda,” stated President Akufo-Addo.

With her background in law, diplomacy, and communications, Ayorkor Botchwey has been a vital figure in Ghana’s international relations, championing regional integration and enhancing Ghana’s presence on the world stage.