Joseph Attoh 
Ghana is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic political figures, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who has passed away at the age of 76 after a short illness. The former First Lady, renowned for her strong voice in women’s empowerment and her bold foray into frontline politics, leaves behind a legacy that reshaped Ghana’s political and social landscape.
Nana Konadu’s public life began when her husband, Jerry John Rawlings, came to power following the December 31, 1981 coup. She served as First Lady from that date until January 7, 2001, and earlier briefly in 1979. During her time in office, she became a tireless advocate for women’s rights and social development. Through the 31st December Women’s Movement, she empowered thousands of women across Ghana with education, vocational training, and leadership opportunities, paving the way for greater female participation in Governance.
Her most defining political move came in 2012 when she broke ranks with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the party her husband founded, to establish the National Democratic Party (NDP). This bold decision reflected her dissatisfaction with internal party democracy and leadership direction within the NDC. Though the NDP never captured national power, its creation marked a significant moment in Ghana’s political history—symbolising both her independence and her determination to challenge the status quo.
Beyond party politics, she influenced social change through her advocacy for education, health, and equality. As both First Lady and political leader, she consistently championed causes that advanced the welfare of women and children, making her one of the most transformative figures in Ghana’s post-independence history.
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About The Author
Joseph Otsibah 
