National Coordinator of the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuye, has described the passing of former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings as a monumental loss to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the nation.
Speaking on Channel One TV, Mr. Vanderpuye said the news came as a shock, especially as the NDC was preparing to commemorate the fifth anniversary of the death of its founder and former President, Jerry John Rawlings — her husband.
“It’s quite a difficult time for us. We had just met and were preparing for the 5th anniversary of the passing of our founder, H.E. Jerry John Rawlings. For her to leave us at this moment was very unexpected. It’s a big blow because it affects our plans for the anniversary. Do we hold her funeral on the same day, or postpone the anniversary?” he asked.
Mr. Vanderpuye paid glowing tribute to the late First Lady, commending her for redefining the role of First Ladies in Africa and inspiring generations of women across the continent.
“She was not just an ordinary Ghanaian; she was a powerful international figure. Nana Konadu’s influence extended beyond our borders. She inspired countless African women and brought the role of First Lady to the forefront; she was the most prominent, active, and respected African First Lady.”
He further noted that her impact reached beyond Africa.
“She even engaged with some Western First Ladies. It’s a huge loss for our party, even though she had formed her own political movement. Her passing was unexpected,” he added.
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, passed away on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Ridge Hospital in Accra.
She was Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady, serving during both military and civilian administrations, and was celebrated for her tireless advocacy for women’s rights, child welfare, and social progress.