Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the newly elected Commonwealth Secretary-General, has emphasized the significant work ahead and expressed her commitment to building a Commonwealth that serves all its citizens.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration for Ghana won the Commonwealth Secretary-General elections with overwhelming support from the Heads of Government at a retreat in Apia.
In a post on her X page, she expressed her gratitude, stating, “Truly humbled by the overwhelming support of the Commonwealth Heads of Government in selecting me as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The work indeed lies ahead!”
She added, “I’m honored and humbled by the trust of Commonwealth leaders. A lot of work lies ahead. But together, we shall work for a New Commonwealth that works for all its citizens.”
An artwork shared on the X page of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also conveyed gratitude to the Commonwealth leaders for their trust.
In a message from the official handle of the Commonwealth Secretariat, it was confirmed that the Commonwealth Heads of Government selected her during the meeting.
“Today at #CHOGM2024, Commonwealth Heads of Government have selected the Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, currently the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth,” the post stated.
The outgoing Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, also acknowledged the transition, saying, “It is my honor to pass the baton to my dear sister, the Hon Shirley @AyorkorBotchwey, who will succeed me as the next Commonwealth Secretary-General.
She will be uniquely blessed, as I have been, to hold this office and serve our precious Commonwealth.”
