Former Vice President and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes, a founding member of the NPP and former National Chairman of the party.
In a tribute, Dr Bawumia described the late Odoi-Sykes as an important figure in the history of the NPP, noting his contribution to the party’s development and Ghana’s democratic journey.
Odoi-Sykes served as National Chairman of the NPP from 1998 to 2001, a period that culminated in the party’s historic victory in the 2000 general elections, resulting in the first peaceful transfer of political power between parties under Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
Dr Bawumia said the late statesman had earned an honoured place in the party’s history through his leadership and service.
He also extended his condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones, saying Odoi-Sykes’ contribution to the party and the country would be remembered.
“His service to Party and country will long be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. Farewell, Chairman. May your soul rest in perfect peace,” Dr Bawumia stated.
NPP’s tribute to former chairman
NPP National Chairman John Boadu, in a separate statement, described Ambassador Odoi-Sykes as an eminent statesman, distinguished patriot and accomplished diplomat who played a significant role in the establishment and development of the party.
According to the statement, Odoi-Sykes devoted several decades to public service, constitutional democracy and political leadership, earning respect across the political divide.
He served as a Member of Parliament for Ashiedu Keteke, now Odododiodioo, during Ghana’s Third Republic and subsequently became Minority Leader of Parliament.
As one of the founding figures of the NPP, he was credited with helping to establish the party’s institutional and ideological foundations.
His tenure as National Chairman from 1998 to 2001 was described by the party as a period of strengthening and uniting the NPP ahead of the 2000 elections.
Following the NPP’s electoral victory, Odoi-Sykes was appointed Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada, a position he held from 2001 to 2006.
The NPP said he also served on several national and party committees, where he provided what it described as “wise counsel, strategic leadership, and invaluable institutional memory.”
The party praised his integrity, humility, intellect and commitment to Ghana’s democratic development.
“His passing marks the end of an illustrious chapter in Ghana’s political history,” the statement said, describing him as one of the party’s respected elder statesmen and architects.
The NPP extended its condolences to his wife, children, relatives, friends and associates, and prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family.
“Ambassador Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes has indeed paid his dues, and his legacy of principled leadership, patriotism, and selfless service will forever remain etched in the annals of Ghana’s democratic history,” Boadu said.
