On Monday, October 28, 2024, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey accompanied by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, returned to Ghana from Samoa, where Ayorkor Botchwey secured a historic victory by being elected as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Arriving at the Jubilee Lounge which is also the presidential Lounge of Kotoka International Airport, many dignitaries were present to welcome her, including Michael Oquaye Jnr., the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for the Dome-Kwabenya constituency.

Speaking to the media at the Jubilee Lounge, Michael Oquaye Jnr. congratulated Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, expressing his admiration for her achievement.

"This is a remarkable milestone, not only for her but for the entire country. As Ghana's candidate, she had the President’s full support, and her success is a win for all Ghanaians," he said.

Oquaye Jnr. took the opportunity to highlight the President's efforts in strengthening Ghana’s diplomatic presence and outlined future plans under Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

He drew attention to a key initiative from the NPP's recent Foreign Affairs manifesto: Women in Diplomacy.

"As Chairman of the NPP’s Foreign Affairs manifesto, I want to emphasize our commitment to positioning Ghanaians, especially women, in significant roles within international bodies like the UN, WHO, WTO, and ILO," he explained. "The aim is not just to have women represented, but to ensure they are recognized and empowered in these important positions."

The Women in Diplomacy initiative aligns with the party's broader vision to boost Ghana's influence on the world stage while championing gender equality.

Michael Oquaye Jnr. emphasized that Dr. Bawumia’s administration is dedicated to advancing this agenda, ensuring that Ghana remains a strong voice in global diplomacy and that women play leading roles in shaping international policies.

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey's election as the Secretary-General elect of the Commonwealth (which commences in April 2025), not only elevates Ghana's standing in the global arena but also aligns with the NPP's vision of fostering leadership and promoting gender inclusion on an international scale.







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