Back in 2016 Lib Dem Voice published a unique post in which we announced that a former Lib Dem councillor had been enthroned as a prince in Ghana. Sadly we have recently heard that he died on 22nd April. His funeral will be held on Monday 2nd June at 11.30am at Perry Rise Baptist Church.
We have received this tribute from some of his friends and colleagues.
- Prince and Chief Advisor in Ghana
- Former Lib Dem Councillor
- Ethnic Minority Lib Dems Treasurer
We wish to pay tribute to the life and work of his HRH Nana Gyamera-Gyechie I, commonly known as Godfried Eugene Gyechie.
Godfried was the first black Lib Dem councillor to represent Blackheath ward in Lewisham, from 2006-2010.
Michael Bukola writes:
It can be difficult being one of Francis Urquhart’s “backroom boys”, but as we know, it takes all types to make a political party and Godfried was a quiet warrior who met life’s storms with strength and left this world far too soon. He endured at times periods of ill health with grace, humour, and an unwavering positivity that inspired everyone who knew him.
Godfried was a model professional, his dedication to his work, to his constituents is a credit to his unwavering focus, the time, and effort he poured into his work as an accountant and as a politician. This was epitomised by his contribution during the 2010 General Election during “Cleggmania” where the infamous Yellow Battle bus arrived in Blackheath during the final days of the campaign. This was where I first met Godfried on the ‘heath’ literally for the first time, amongst the screams of “I agree with Nick”.
Julliet Makhapila writes:
He spoke about the importance of better representation in UK Politics from amongst underrepresented Ethnic Communities. He also cared about education, and promoting the Arts and Cultural heritage of the African Ghana communities.
From BLAC Lib Dems and LDCRE:
We send our condolences, thoughts and prayers to Godfried’s family.
- Michael Bukola, Outgoing Treasurer Lib Dem Campaign for Race Equality (LDCRE), Former South Wark Councillor Libdems 2010-2014
- Julliet Makhapila, Former London Regional Executive, Lib Dem inclusion and Diversity Champion, Change Maker, Community Leader and Community Advocate
- Nancy Jirira, Lib Dem Councillor Fortune Green Ward in Camden Borough 2008 -2014 , 2021 to present.
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One Comment
I would also like to add my sincere condolences to Godfried’s family and friends. I worked with and got to know Godfried well during my time as Chair of Ethnic Minority Lib Dems. He was an important part of our team, and such a pleasure to work with. The consummate professional, committed and always positive. His passing is extremely sad. He was a unique politician, and will be remembered for his important contribution to diversity and local government. RIP Godfried.