Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey appointed Commonwealth secretary general

Ghana’s Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who has held her position since 2017, recently made headlines after being appointed as the new Secretary General of the Commonwealth, on the final day of the group’s summit in Samoa. As a proponent of reparations for transatlantic slavery and colonialism, she shares this perspective with the two other candidates who competed for the role.

In her first statement on social media following the announcement, Botchwey expressed her gratitude, declaring herself “truly humbled” by the selection and emphasizing that “the work indeed lies ahead!”

During the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which has been a platform for discussions about reparations for the UK’s historic involvement in the transatlantic slave trade and the ongoing climate crisis, Botchwey’s stance resonated with many attendees. A communiqué issued at the meeting highlighted calls for dialogue regarding reparatory justice tied to the transatlantic slave trade and underscored the importance of engaging in “a meaningful, truthful, and respectful conversation” for a future grounded in equity.

However, it remains to be seen how this dialogue will be structured. The UK government has not issued an official apology for its actions during the slave trade and has dismissed the idea of financial reparations. Nevertheless, recent reports indicate that the UK might consider supporting reparatory justice measures, such as restructuring financial institutions and offering debt relief, particularly under growing public pressure.

At a debate held at London’s Chatham House last month, Botchwey articulated her stance on reparations, suggesting that the Commonwealth could play a vital role if member states rallied for a unified approach on the issue. She emphasized that reparatory justice extends beyond financial compensation; it also encompasses support to address the climate crisis and enhance economic resilience in affected countries.

In addition, Botchwey has advocated for the establishment of a free trade agreement among Commonwealth member states. A trained lawyer and politician, she has an impressive background, having studied in both Ghana and the UK. As Foreign Minister, she chaired the council of ministers of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and led Ghana’s two-year tenure on the UN Security Council, which concluded in December 2023.

The Secretary General of the Commonwealth is nominated by member leaders and can serve a maximum of two four-year terms. Botchwey succeeds Patricia Scotland, who has occupied the role since 2016 and was nominated as Dominica’s candidate at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta in 2015.