Succeeding Patricia Scotland, Baroness Scotland of the UK, Botchwey's selection marks a significant transition in Commonwealth leadership.
Baroness Scotland expressed her pride in the handover, saying, "It is my honour to pass the baton to my dear sister, the Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, who will succeed me as the next Commonwealth Secretary-General." Competing against Senator Joshua Setipa of Lesotho and Dr Mamadou Tangara of The Gambia, Botchwey's candidacy received strong endorsement from Ghanaian leaders, including President Nana Akufo-Addo and former President John Mahama, reflecting a Commonwealth-wide preference for African leadership in this position.
In her campaign, Botchwey highlighted her vision for the future of the Commonwealth, describing the organisation as "the most consequential body after the UN." She emphasised her commitment to harnessing the collective strength of the Commonwealth's 2.68 billion citizens for shared progress and resilience, stating, "I care deeply about the Commonwealth and its diverse people," and expressing her determination to make a meaningful impact.
Botchwey brings extensive diplomatic experience, including significant contributions during Ghana's recent tenure on the UN Security Council (2021-23), where she championed funding for African-led peacekeeping initiatives via Resolution 27/19.