Ghana's Parliament, earlier today, December 17, paid a tribute to the country's first-ever Olympic medalist, Clement Ike Quartey, ahead of his final funeral rites.

Ike Quartey Senior passed away at the age of 86 on November 2, 2024, in the United Kingdom.

The late boxer rose to prominence when he represented Ghana at the Summer Olympics in Rome in 1960 in the Light Welterweight category.

His silver medal made him not only the first Ghanaian but also the first Black African to win an Olympic medal. He also paved the way for Ghana's medal collection as the country has gone ahead to win four more medals.

Following the sitting of Parliament earlier today, the ranking member of the Parliamentary Sports Select Committee, Wisdom Kobena Woyome, paid tribute to the departed boxer.

"As a legendary figure in Ghana's sporting history, Clement Ike Quartey Senior's contributions and achievements to boxing and the Olympic movement have had a lasting impact on Ghana's participation in the Olympic Games," he said.

"Ghana started participating in the Olympic Games in 1952 in Helsinki, Finland and has since attended 18 other times, winning five medals.

"I wish to offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and his two children, Clifton and Alex, of our departed legend during these difficult times. May they take consolation that their own, Clement Ike Quartey left a legacy that is far beyond the ring, touching many lives with his remarkable skills, determination and sportsmanship.

"I pray that the soul of Clement Ike Quartey and all sportsmen and women, who played significant roles in raising the flag of Ghana rest in perfect peace."

Ike Quartey Snr is the older brother of legendary Ghanaian former World Champion Ike "Bazooka Quartey."

The final funeral rites of the boxer are expected to be held over the weekend with his burial taking place on Tuesday, December 17.