Right Honourable Aaron Mike Oquaye, born on April 4, 1944, is a prominent Ghanaian barrister, politician, academic, diplomat, and Baptist minister. A significant figure in Ghanaian politics and public service, Oquaye served as the sixth Speaker of Parliament of the Fourth Republic of Ghana, holding the prestigious position from 2017 to 2021. His tenure as Speaker was marked by his commitment to legislative reform and governance, with a focus on reinforcing the independence and integrity of Ghana’s parliamentary system.

Before his role as Speaker, Oquaye held various high-level government positions. He served as a cabinet minister, overseeing the portfolios of Energy and Communication, where he introduced and championed policies aimed at modernizing Ghana’s energy and telecommunications sectors. His leadership was instrumental in setting the foundation for the nation’s transition into a digitally-connected economy and enhancing energy reliability—a key driver for economic growth in Ghana.

Oquaye’s diplomatic contributions are equally noteworthy. From 2002 to 2004, he served as the High Commissioner of Ghana to India under President John Agyekum Kufuor’s administration. During this period, Oquaye strengthened Ghana-India relations, facilitating trade, investment, and cultural exchange between the two nations. His diplomatic initiatives helped enhance bilateral cooperation, especially in sectors such as technology, education, and business.

In addition to his political and diplomatic roles, Oquaye is a respected academic and an author, with a wealth of scholarly work focusing on political science, African development, and governance. He has lectured extensively in Ghana and internationally, sharing his insights on democracy, governance, and economic development. His academic background informs his approach to public service, emphasizing informed decision-making and policy rooted in thorough research.

As a Baptist minister, Oquaye also plays a significant role in the religious community. His faith-based leadership emphasizes integrity, compassion, and service to others, values that have influenced his approach to both politics and diplomacy.

Oquaye’s contributions to Ghana span multiple domains—politics, diplomacy, academia, and ministry. His career is marked by dedication to public service, a commitment to Ghana’s development, and an enduring influence on the country’s political landscape.