President Akufo-Addo Congratulates Ayorkor Botchwey on Commonwealth Secretary-General Election

ACCRA: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has extended his congratulations to Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, following her election as the seventh Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The President highlighted Botchwey's exemplary service record and the respect Ghana commands internationally, as demonstrated by her election. According to Ghana News Agency, President Akufo-Addo expressed his admiration in a Facebook post, lauding Botchwey's enduring dedication to Ghana, Africa, and the international community. He emphasized her work in bridging divides and establishing meaningful partnerships during her tenure as Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration. Botchwey's election came after a competitive race against Senator Joshua Setipa of Lesotho and Dr. Mamadou Tangara of the Gambia, with significant endorsements from Ghanaian leaders, including former President John Mahama. Her appointment reflects a broader preference for Africa n leadership within the Commonwealth. Botchwey, a proponent of reparations for transatlantic slavery and colonialism, will succeed Baroness Patricia Scotland of the United Kingdom, who has served since 2016. President Akufo-Addo praised Botchwey's vision of inclusivity and progress, expressing confidence in her ability to guide the Commonwealth toward a future marked by hope and unity. He also thanked the Heads of State and Government for their confidence in endorsing Ghana's candidate, affirming that Botchwey will advocate for the Commonwealth's shared values and cooperation. The President extended his gratitude to the outgoing Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, acknowledging her service to the Commonwealth. In her campaign, Botchwey outlined her vision for the Commonwealth, describing it as a pivotal organization next to the United Nations. She committed to leveraging the collective strength of the Commonwealth's 2.68 billion citizens for shared progress. The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, a ttended by representatives of nations with historical ties to the British empire, focused on critical issues, including slavery and climate change.