Member of Parliament for Takoradi, Mr Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, has paid glowing tribute to the late former First Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, describing her as “a force in the politics of Ghana” whose impact on women’s empowerment and national development can never be erased.

Speaking in reaction to news of her passing with Joy News, the Takoradi MP highlighted Nana Konadu’s instrumental role in mobilising women through the 31st December Women’s Movement and her contribution to legislative reforms that advanced gender equality.

“But I believe that Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings had really been a force in the politics of Ghana,” he said.

“From the 31st December Women’s Movement and the way she conscientized Ghanaian women to do so much for themselves — she made her mark.”

Mr Darko-Mensah also noted that the former First Lady was a key advocate behind the Intestate Succession Law, which provided legal protection for widows and children after the death of a spouse — a landmark reform that continues to safeguard Ghanaian families.

“You also know the Intestate Succession Law, which she championed and has become a model law that has supported a lot of women, especially in marriages and family life,” he said. “So I believe that she made her own contribution to the development of this country. That can never be taken from her.”

He expressed confidence that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) — the party Nana Konadu helped to build alongside her late husband, former President Jerry John Rawlings — and her later political movement, the National Democratic Party (NDP), would come together to give her a befitting burial.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady, is remembered as a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, education, and social justice.