The passing of former First Lady Mrs Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings has caused Ghana's Ambassador to the United States of America, Victor Emmanuel Smith, "deep sadness".

The diplomat and National Democratic Congress (NDC) politician noted this in his statement dated Thursday, October 23, 2025.

"Awakened far away in Iowa with this heartbreaking news, I had hoped it was inaccurate. However, after the confirmation, I was left with a profound sense of personal loss," the former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (2014-2017) said.

He remembered the wife of the Fourth Republic's first President, Jerry John Rawlings, as the one who "introduced me into active politics in the early 1990s".

"Upon my return from the United Kingdom in 1994, she offered me the opportunity and space to begin my journey in public service. I remain eternally grateful for the belief she had in my potential and for the pivotal role she played in shaping my political life," Mr Smith explained.

Read more below:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tribute Statement by Victor Emmanuel Smith

On the Passing of Mrs. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings

Date: 23/10/25

I received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Mrs. Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana and a towering figure in our nation’s political development.

Awakened far away in Iowa with this heartbreaking news, I had hoped it was inaccurate. However, after the confirmation, I was left with a profound sense of personal loss.

Mrs. Agyeman-Rawlings introduced me into active politics in the early 1990s. Upon my return from the United Kingdom in 1994, she offered me the opportunity and space to begin my journey in public service. I remain eternally grateful for the belief she had in my potential and for the pivotal role she played in shaping my political life.

Like many meaningful relationships, ours experienced its challenges over time. But today, I choose to remember her for the significant impact she made — on me, on countless women she inspired, and on Ghana’s democratic progress. I was hopeful that time would afford us the chance to fully reconnect. Sadly, that opportunity will no longer come in the way I had imagined.

To her beloved children — Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Yaa Asantewaa, Amina, and Kimathi — I extend my heartfelt condolences, love, and solidarity. We were once a close family unit, and I wish to reaffirm my hand of friendship and support during this painful moment.

Ghana has lost a bold, visionary, and courageous leader — a champion of women’s empowerment and a key actor in shaping our political history. Her legacy will stand tall for generations.

May her soul rest in perfect peace.