The Minority Caucus in Parliament has mourned the passing of former New Patriotic Party (NPP) National Chairman and Minority Leader, H.E. Samuel Arthur Odoi-Sykes, describing him as a distinguished statesman whose contributions helped shape Ghana’s democratic development.
In a statement, the Caucus paid tribute to Mr Odoi-Sykes, who also served as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada, highlighting his role in strengthening democratic institutions and advancing the ideals of parliamentary democracy.
The statement described the late politician as one of the patriots who understood the courage, conviction and sacrifice required to build and sustain a democratic society.
Mr Odoi-Sykes was a founding member of the NPP and served as its National Chairman. He played a role in the party’s historic electoral victory in 2000, which led to a peaceful transfer of power and marked a significant moment in Ghana’s Fourth Republic.
The Minority Caucus noted that although his tenure as Minority Leader was cut short following the military overthrow of Ghana’s Third Republic and the abolition of Parliament in 1981, his commitment to parliamentary democracy remained a defining part of his political legacy.
“His life reminds us that the highest measure of public service is not how long we occupy positions of authority, but how faithfully we serve the ideals that give those positions meaning,” the statement said.
The Caucus further described him as a founding father of its political tradition and a devoted servant of the Republic whose contributions would remain part of Ghana’s democratic history.
It extended its condolences to his family, loved ones and members of the Danquah-Busia-Dombo political tradition.
“Chairman Odoi-Sykes has completed his earthly journey. But the democratic ideals he championed, the political tradition he helped build and the nation he served will carry his legacy forward,” the statement added.
The Minority Caucus prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
