Expressions of grief and admiration continue to flow from current and former government figures following the death of Ghana’s former First Lady and founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings.
She passed away on Thursday, October 23, at the age of 76.
President John Dramani Mahama shared his sorrow in a Facebook post on Friday, mourning her loss.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former First Lady and founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, H.E. Mrs Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Her legacy and dedication to empowering women and serving our nation will never be forgotten. Our heartfelt condolences go to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. May her soul rest in perfect peace,” he wrote.
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also honored her memory on X (formerly Twitter), calling Mrs Rawlings “a role model for women in Ghana and across Africa,” and emphasizing that her efforts to uplift women “remain impactful to this day.”
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President, also paid tribute, describing her as a pioneer in championing women’s rights.
“Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings leaves behind a legacy defined by her unwavering commitment to the nation’s women and girls. She didn’t just speak about women’s rights; she mobilised a movement,” he said.
New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful Kennedy Agyapong referred to the late First Lady as “an iconic figure in Ghana’s political and social history.”
“She was a woman of courage, conviction and an unyielding commitment to the empowerment of women and the advancement of our nation,” he stated.
Another NPP contender, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, remarked that Mrs Rawlings’ “legacy of service, women empowerment, and unwavering love for Ghana will continue to inspire generations.”
Former First Lady Rebecca Akufo-Addo also expressed her sympathies, writing:
“My deepest condolences to the family and friends of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings in these difficult times. May her soul rest in peace.”
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Member of Parliament for Ofoase-Ayirebi, simply wrote, “Rest in peace, former First Lady,” while Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah described her as “a formidable advocate and a true champion for women’s inclusion and gender parity.”
Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Shamima Muslim called her “a powerhouse in all your shades,” adding that Mrs Rawlings “left a lasting legacy in the fight for women’s and girls’ rights.”
Joyce Bawa Mogtari, Senior Presidential Aide to President Mahama, praised her as “an exceptional woman whose extraordinary life will be remembered,” highlighting her unique style and lifelong dedication to the rights of women and children.
Other political figures, including Patrick Boamah, Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, and NDC General Secretary Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, also shared their respects.
Mr Kwetey referred to her as “a force of impact for women and children,” while Haruna Iddrisu stated, “The nation mourns deeply the loss of former First Lady, Her Excellency Mrs Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings. Our hearts go out to her immediate family during this sorrowful time.”
Dr Bryan Acheampong, another NPP presidential aspirant, expressed his grief:
“I’m saddened by the passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, our former First Lady. She championed women’s rights with distinction. My heartfelt condolences to her family and all who mourn. May she rest in peace.”
Former Deputy Lands Minister George Mireku Duker described her as “a great woman of courage, vision, and service.”
“Your legacy in women’s empowerment and national development will never be forgotten. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings,” he wrote.
Peter Boamah Otokunor, Director of Presidential Initiatives in Agriculture and Agribusiness, called the news “very sad and debilitating” in a post on X, saying Ghana had lost “the mother of our Fourth Republic and the nation’s mother.”
He reflected on how Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings “mentored and nurtured” his political path from his school years, noting that many, himself included, were “products of her compassion, mentorship and love.” He extended his sympathies to her children and family, praying that her “beautiful, vibrant soul rests in perfect peace.”
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