A State funeral was held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the Forecourt of the State House for a former Chairperson of the Council of State and a stalwart of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Cecilia Johnson, who passed away in September.
Mrs Johnson, 79, served the nation with distinction under the administrations of President Jerry John Rawlings and President John Evans Atta Mills, and during the first term of President John Dramani Mahama.
Present at the funeral was President Mahama, who was accompanied by Senior government officials and leaders of the NDC.
Also present at the funeral service were some government officials, dignitaries, family, and friends, who gathered to pay their last respects.
Beacon of integrity
In his tribute, delivered on his behalf by Presidential Advisor, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, President Mahama eulogised Mrs Johnson as a beacon of integrity, describing her as a shining example for women in leadership.
He stated that Mrs Johnson, who also served as a Minister of Local Government, embodied decency in politics and urged the political class to emulate her values.
He emphasised her inspirational example for women and girls, stating: “To Ghana’s women and girls, Madame Cecilia’s question, can I? Yes, you can leave with excellence and grace. You can chair the table and still make room for others. You can both be compassionate and courageous.”
Children’s tribute
A poignant moment came when her daughter, Louisa Dela Johnson, remembered her mother as a strong woman and a mentor.
She shared a personal story of how Mrs Johnson, in her youth, once ran away from home to avoid being forced into an early marriage, a testament to her independent spirit and determination from a young age.
Funeral
After the service, the remains were transported to Awua-Domase for burial.
Per the family’s funeral arrangements, a Burial Mass will be held at the Christ the King Cathedral, Sunyani, today, followed by the final funeral rites at the Christ the King Cathedral Park.
Profile
Born in Awua-Domase, Cecilia Akua Pokuaa Gyimah was one of 12 children.
After her secondary education, she pursued higher education at the University of Ghana and, upon graduating, began her public service journey at the then Ministry of Trade, Industries and Tourism as a Commercial Officer, rising through the ranks to become a Principal Commercial Officer.
She later became a foundational figure in women’s empowerment in Ghana, serving as the first General Secretary of the 31st December Women’s Movement, a pioneering organisation credited with championing the rights and advancement of women in the 1980s and 1990s.
Mrs Johnson was later appointed the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development. She also served as the Chairperson of the Council of State during President Mahama’s first tenure.
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