Akufo-Addo, NPP leaders commiserate with Rawlings family over passing of Nana Konadu
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and leading figures of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have extended their condolences to the family of the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, following her passing in Accra.
The former President visited the Rawlings family in Accra to commiserate with them. He was in the company of his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, former Chief of Staff, Frema Osei Opare, former Lands Minister Samuel Abu Jinapor, former Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery, former Defence Minister, Dominic Nitiwul, among others.
The former President described Nana Konadu as a “remarkable woman” whose legacy in women’s empowerment and national development will endure for generations.
He assured the family of his unflinching support in honouring the late former first lady.
Meanwhile, in a statement issued on Thursday, October 23, 2025, Mr Akufo-Addo said he and his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo, were deeply saddened by the news of her death, noting her pivotal role as Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady and founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement.
“Her commitment to the growth of the women’s movement in Ghana and Africa can never be forgotten. She was a warm and affectionate woman, with a good sense of humour and was excellent company,” he said.
He further described Mrs Rawlings as a “role model for women in Ghana and across Africa,” whose dedication to gender advocacy has left an indelible mark on the nation. The former President extended heartfelt sympathy to her children and family, praying for God’s comfort during this difficult period.
“Rebecca, my children and I extend our deepest condolences to her children and family on this sad occasion. May her soul rest peacefully in the bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection, when we shall meet again,” Akufo-Addo stated.
Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings passed away at the Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 76. She served as Ghana’s First Lady across both military and civilian administrations led by her husband, the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, from 1979 to 2001.
Beyond her role as First Lady, Nana Konadu was a trailblazer in women’s empowerment and political activism. She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, which championed women’s rights and social development, and later established the National Democratic Party (NDP).
In 2016, she made history as the first woman to contest the presidency of Ghana, cementing her place as one of the most influential female figures in the nation’s political history.
Funeral arrangements for the late former First Lady are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
