Charlotte Kesson-Smith Osei | Ghana | Unbreakable Bond
- EA
- Jul 22, 2024
- 3 min read
Wealth & Legacy Lawyer | Tri-Sector Consultant | Writer | Speaker
Founder | Philanthropist | Sofahen - Royalty (Queen) - Community Builder
In the vibrant heart of Ghana, a tale of remarkable achievement and tradition intertwines as Charlotte Osei, Ghana’s pioneering first female Electoral Commissioner, steps into a new role that beautifully bridges her illustrious career with her cultural heritage. Now honored with the title Safohen Nana Ama Kesson, she has been enstooled as the leader of the Nkum Asafo #4 warrior group in the Oguaa Traditional Area—a role that weaves together her past triumphs and future promises. Charlotte’s story begins with a rich tapestry of heritage and ambition. Born in Nigeria to a family of mixed West African backgrounds, her early life was a blend of diverse influences that shaped her extraordinary journey. Her educational voyage started at Ghana National College in Cape Coast, where she laid the foundation for a future filled with groundbreaking achievements. The University of Ghana followed, where she earned her LLB in 1992, and the Ghana School of Law, where she was called to the bar in 1994. But Charlotte’s quest for knowledge didn’t stop there. Driven by a passion for excellence, she pursued further studies with a Master of Business Leadership from the University of South Africa and a Master of Laws from Queen’s University in Canada. Her academic pursuits were not just about degrees but about preparing for a career that would leave an indelible mark on her country and the world.
Her professional journey began with a role as a teaching assistant at the University of Ghana’s Faculty of Law, where she ignited her career in academia. She quickly moved into the legal field, working with Laryea Company and the Ghana Commercial Bank, and later founded Prime Attorneys. Her expertise and leadership were further recognized when she became the Chairperson of the National Commission for Civic Education in 2011.
In 2015, Charlotte made history as Ghana’s first female Electoral Commissioner, a role that saw her spearheading the 2016 Presidential and Parliamentary elections with unwavering integrity. Her tenure was a testament to her commitment to democratic values, though it was not without challenges. Despite facing legal disputes following her dismissal, Charlotte’s resilience and dedication to justice remained unshaken. Her impact extended beyond Ghana’s borders. In 2019, the United Nations appointed her as an International Non-Voting Electoral Commissioner for Afghanistan. Here, she played a crucial role in guiding the electoral process, ensuring fairness and transparency in a critical time for the country.
Now, as Safohen Nana Ama Kesson, Charlotte Osei embraces her role with a profound sense of duty and tradition. Leading the Nkum Asafo #4 warrior group, she brings the same strength and vision that have defined her career. Her new role celebrates not only her past achievements but also her deep connection to Ghanaian heritage. Her journey has been marked by accolades and recognition, including the Woman of Courage Award from the US Government and the Glitz Africa Woman of the Year Award in Governance. Each award reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence and her enduring impact on both her homeland and the global stage.
As Safohen Nana Ama Kesson, Charlotte’s story continues to inspire—a tale of transformation, courage, and an unbreakable bond between her professional legacy and her cultural roots. Her leadership now extends beyond the realms of law and public service, embracing the rich traditions of Ghana’s heritage with the same passion and dedication that have always defined her remarkable journey.
Social Media Handles:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/char_osei/?hl=en