Shirley Botchwey: The right leader for Commonwealth

As the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) draws to a close in Apia, Samoa, Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, stands poised to make history as the second African to hold the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

The Daily Graphic firmly believes that Ms Botchwey is the ideal candidate for the esteemed position.

With over two decades of experience in diplomacy, trade, defence, and security, Ms Botchwey has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, navigating complex international agreements and promoting the interests of developing nations. 

Her tenure as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers is particularly notable, where she championed bold reforms, resulting in significant savings redirected to support community programmes.

Her leadership ensured ECOWAS remained a stabilising force in West Africa during periods of political instability.

Ms Botchwey's vision for a resilient Commonwealth is built around addressing pressing issues such as economic inequality, youth unemployment, and climate change. Her comprehensive plan focuses on trade and investment, youth empowerment, education, skills development, innovation, and sustainable development.

By harnessing the collective strength of member states, she aims to create economic opportunities that will lift people out of poverty and build robust economies.

The Daily Graphic supports Ms Botchwey's candidacy for several reasons. Firstly, her proven track record of leadership and diplomacy makes her an exceptional candidate.

Secondly, Ghana's long-standing and influential history within the Commonwealth, having played a crucial role in advocating the establishment of the Commonwealth Secretariat, positions her for the position. 

Lastly, her commitment to promoting African interests and her experience in negotiating complex international agreements align with the Commonwealth's goals.

Ghana must lead the Commonwealth at this critical juncture. With Africa comprising over a third of the organisation's 56 member states, it is imperative that the continent's voice is heard. 

Ms Botchwey's leadership will not only enhance Ghana's standing and visibility in international relations but also provide a unique opportunity for Africa to shape the Commonwealth's agenda.

Her commitment to promoting intra-Commonwealth trade and investment is particularly noteworthy. With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) already underway, her leadership can facilitate greater economic cooperation between Africa and other Commonwealth member states.

By leveraging the organisation's collective strength, she can help create jobs, stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty.

Furthermore, Ms Botchwey's experience in promoting peace and security makes her an ideal candidate to address the Commonwealth's most pressing challenges.

Her successful leadership of ECOWAS' mediation efforts in several West African countries demonstrates her ability to navigate complex conflicts. As Secretary-General, she will be well-equipped to address issues such as terrorism, cybercrime and climate change.

Ghana's historical ties to the Commonwealth also make Ms Botchwey's candidacy particularly significant.

As one of the founding members of the organisation, Ghana has consistently played an active role in promoting its values and principles. Ms Botchwey's leadership will not only honour this legacy but also reaffirm Ghana's commitment to global cooperation.

Ms Botchwey's election will also send a powerful message about the importance of women's leadership in global governance. As a seasoned diplomat and minister, she has shattered glass ceilings throughout her career. Her success will inspire countless women and girls across the Commonwealth, demonstrating that they too can reach the highest echelons of leadership.

The Daily Graphic firmly believes that Ms Botchwey will make an outstanding Secretary-General, and therefore urges all member states to support her historic bid. She is the right leader for the Commonwealth.

Her vision, experience and leadership skills make her an exceptional candidate. We are firmly sure that she will succeed in her bid for Secretary-General, and urge all member states to support her candidacy.

As Dr Vladimir Antwi-Danso, the Dean of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, aptly put it, "Madam Ayorkor Botchwey would succeed in her bid for Secretary-General." 

We share his confidence and look forward to seeing Ms Botchwey lead the Commonwealth towards a brighter future.