Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has paid a stirring tribute to the late former First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as a fearless advocate for women, a pillar of Ghana’s democracy and a “force of nature” whose legacy will echo far beyond her lifetime.
Bagbin, reflecting on decades of political and personal encounters with her, said Nana Konadu’s influence extended far beyond her role as the wife of former President Jerry John Rawlings. He called her a defining figure in Ghana’s Fourth Republic and a central force in shaping the identity of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“She was a mother in many respects and a towering emblem of women’s empowerment in this country,” Bagbin said, recalling their first interactions during Ghana’s revolutionary era. He noted that she embodied the guiding principle in her own writing: “It takes a woman to build a family.”
According to Bagbin, the late former First Lady stood firmly beside Rawlings during the early days of the NDC, offering strategic guidance and organizational strength that helped shape the party’s rise. Yet, he said, she refused to be defined solely by her husband’s political stature. “She knew she needed to leave an imprint in the annals of Ghana’s history,” he said.
Bagbin likened her courage to that of Ashanti warrior queen Yaa Asantewaa, insisting that her contributions were foundational in opening doors for women in leadership and public life. Her advocacy, he said, changed national conversations about visibility, power and the role of women in governance.
Through the 31st December Women’s Movement, Nana Konadu championed economic empowerment for women across markets, communities and schools. Her work, Bagbin said, helped women “find their voices and strengthen their economic independence,” creating opportunities that continue to shape Ghana’s social fabric.
“Without her, Ghana’s democracy may never have become the shining example it is today,” he said. “She stood for this nation at every stage.”
Bagbin acknowledged moments of political disagreement but emphasized that her sincerity, conviction and commitment to national development were never in doubt. Her leadership, he noted, extended long beyond her time in public office and continued to influence younger generations within the NDC and across the country.
“Nana Konadu stood firmly among the pillars who gave everything to shape the party’s identity,” he said. “Her advocacy demanded that we make room for women at every table of decision-making.”
Bagbin said Ghana has lost a national mother, but generations of girls will continue to draw strength from her example. He prayed for comfort for her family, whom he has known for many years.
“Nana Konadu was a good woman,” he said. “Her labor is not in vain. Fare thee well.”