You have shown the world how to blend traditional leadership and modern statecraft - Ayorkor Botchwey praises Otumfuo

The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has expressed confidence that the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, will continue to inspire the world through his distinguished leadership in peacemaking.

She emphasised that the Asantehene’s record in promoting peace offers valuable lessons, describing his efforts as a model of leadership that deserves global recognition.

Ms Botchwey made the remarks at the World Meets in Ghana Executive Dinner Ball held in Kumasi to honour Otumfuo Osei Tutu II as a Pillar of Peace on the occasion of his 27th coronation anniversary.

She noted that the Asantehene’s leadership demonstrates how traditional authority and modern governance can complement each other to strengthen societies.

“His Majesty has shown over many years that traditional leadership and modern statecraft are not in contradiction. At their best, they strengthen one another. The moral authority of tradition, exercised with wisdom and integrity, can help societies find balance, restore dialogue, and move forward together, anchored in values tested by time,” she said.

According to her, the Asantehene’s style of leadership is particularly relevant at a time when the world is grappling with rising tensions, conflict, mistrust, and economic uncertainty.

She stressed that addressing such challenges requires steady and inclusive leadership that promotes dialogue and unity.

“The response to this is leadership that is steady enough to calm tensions. Leadership that is generous enough to build bridges. Leadership that understands that dignity, dialogue, and justice are not abstract ideals but the foundations of national and regional cohesion and lasting progress,” she added.

Ms Botchwey also congratulated the Asantehene on his anniversary, paying tribute to his service to Asanteman, Ghana, and the global community.

“Your Majesty, on behalf of the Commonwealth, on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III, your dear friend, and in my own name, I pay tribute to your distinguished service. We honour your commitment to peace.

“We honour your service to Asanteman, to Ghana, and to the world. And we honour the example you continue to offer to all who believe that leadership should unite, not divide; leadership should heal, not inflame; and leadership should leave a nation stronger, calmer, and more confident than it was before.

“Your Majesty, may your legacy continue to inspire, and may Ghana and the wider world continue to draw strength from the truth that peace is our greatest virtue,” she said.