Former Minister of Energy, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has extended his heartfelt condolences following the passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady of Ghana and a towering figure in the nation’s political history.

In a post shared on his official Facebook page, Dr. Prempeh—popularly known as NAPO—described 2025 as a particularly difficult year for Ghana, marked by the loss of several distinguished national figures.

He reflected on Nana Konadu’s passing as “a poignant reminder of the fragility of life,” while expressing deep sympathy to her family and loved ones.

“This year has been a heavy one for our nation, with the loss of many great men and women.

The passing of Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings is yet another poignant reminder of how fragile life is,” he wrote.

Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, who served as First Lady from 1981 to 2001, is widely celebrated for her immense contributions to women’s empowerment and national development.

She was the founder of the 31st December Women’s Movement, an influential organisation that mobilised women across the country for socio-economic advancement and political participation.

Beyond her role as First Lady, Nana Konadu made history as the first woman to contest the presidency in Ghana’s Fourth Republic, breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of women in politics and leadership.

Dr. Prempeh’s tribute acknowledged the former First Lady’s enduring influence, noting that her passing marks the end of an era in Ghana’s political evolution.

“Her life was one of service and leadership — a legacy we must continue to uphold,” he stated, urging Ghanaians to preserve her vision of inclusion, justice, and empowerment.

Political observers have described her death as a moment of national reflection, cutting across party lines and uniting Ghanaians in mourning. Nana Konadu’s lifelong advocacy for social justice, gender equality, and civic engagement remains an indelible part of Ghana’s democratic journey.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, civil society, and the general public, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings is being remembered not only as a former First Lady, but as a trailblazer, reformer, and symbol of resilience whose leadership reshaped the narrative of women in governance.