The Ghanaian Association of New Zealand has reacted with dismay the racial slur cast on the person of Mr Kofi Annan, a Ghanaian and the United Nations Secretary-General by broadcaster Paul Holmes during his morning radio show on Newstalk ZB on Wednesday 24 September 2003.

Mr. Holmes comments describing Mr. Annan as a "cheeky darkie" and adding "It is all very well giving a darkie that secretary general's job. …We are not going to be told how to live by a Ghanaian" are very distasteful. "These comments by Mr. Holmes are very insulting not only on the UN Secretary-General but on all Ghanaians" said Mr. Emmanuel Ntreh, President of the Ghanaian Association of New Zealand. It is indeed very disappointing for a person of Mr. Holmes calibre to use such inflamed comments to put across his difference of opinion on an issue, which has nothing to do with race or nationality. Mr. Annan is well respected by all manner of persons in the world, a respect rightfully earned. He is a world's statesman who continues to make significant contributions on the international scene. Though, Mr. Holmes comments have not diminished Mr. Annan's enviable personality and the admiration he commands around the world, the Ghanaian community find it inappropriate and insulting and therefore condemn in no uncertain terms these comments by Mr. Paul Holmes. We will make a formal complaint on this matter to the appropriate authorities.

Media Contact:
Dr Charles A-Dwamena,
Public Relations Officer,
The Ghanaian Association of New Zealand P.O.Box 78308, Grey Lynn, Auckland
Email: dwamena@free.net.nz