Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has been appointed as the Commonwealth’s new secretary-general, as announced at the closing of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.
This summit, attended by King Charles and Queen Camilla, brought leaders from the 56-member states together to address significant global issues, including slavery and climate change.
“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 Commonwealth posted on X.
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, a strong advocate for reparations for colonialism and transatlantic slavery, will replace Patricia Scotland as the Commonwealth’s secretary-general.
King Charles and Queen Camilla left the country after a farewell ceremony in the village of Siumu, where the king acknowledged the “painful” history of the Commonwealth amidst rising calls for reparations.
“I understand from listening to people across the Commonwealth how the most painful aspects of our past continue to resonate,” he said.
“It is vital, therefore, that we understand our history, to guide us towards making the right choices in future,” he added.
Despite heavy rain, the farewell proceeded before their departure on a Royal Australian Air Force jet from Faleolo International Airport.
The global push for reparations, led prominently by CARICOM and the African Union, has intensified, pressing former colonial powers like Britain to recognize their roles in the slave trade and address its long-lasting impacts.
Supporters argue that slavery’s legacy fuels ongoing racial inequalities, while opponents contend that modern nations shouldn’t be held accountable for historical injustices. This debate underscores the complex discussions surrounding historical responsibility and socio-economic disparities that persist today.
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