The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has publicly mourned the loss of Akua Donkor, a prominent political figure in Ghana, recognizing her passing as a significant loss to the nation. In a statement, the NPP commended her perseverance in overcoming various challenges throughout her life, stating that her resilience serves as an inspiration for all Ghanaians. They emphasized the importance of her contributions to society, asserting that regardless of factors such as gender, education, age, class, or religion, every citizen has the potential to make impactful contributions to Ghana’s development. The party expressed heartfelt condolences to her family, honoring the legacy she leaves behind.
Akua Donkor, born in February 1952, passed away on October 28, after a brief illness at Ridge Hospital in Accra. At the time of her death, she was not only the leader but also the presidential candidate for the Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) in the upcoming 2024 General Election. Despite facing literacy challenges related to her education, Donkor was unwavering in her advocacy for her rights and the promotion of women’s development. Her journey in politics began with her election as the Assemblywoman for Heman in the Ashanti Region, which marked an important milestone towards her ambition of becoming the President of Ghana.
Throughout her political career, Donkor faced significant hurdles, having made two previous attempts to contest in presidential elections in 2012 and 2016; both times, she was disqualified by the Electoral Commission. However, her determination paid off in 2020 when she became one of three women presidential candidates who successfully qualified to run, finishing fifth out of twelve candidates. Entering the race for the upcoming 2024 elections was a major step forward, as she was successful in filing her nomination, positioning the GFP third on the ballot paper.
Akua Donkor’s campaign messages were centered around a robust agenda for education, consisting of a comprehensive free educational policy from primary to secondary levels, along with the introduction of a science-based educational framework designed to cultivate a strong human resource base for the nation. Her political vision extended to adopting homegrown solutions aimed at enhancing the capabilities of Ghana to refine its own natural resources, such as gold and oil, while also nurturing small and medium-sized enterprises to foster economic growth.
Moreover, the Ghana Freedom Party, under Donkor’s leadership, made a commitment to combating corruption in all its manifestations. The GFP’s plans included addressing issues related to corruption among government officials and tackling bribery scandals if granted the opportunity to govern. The party’s platform promised transparency and accountability, reflecting Akua Donkor’s ideals of justice and integrity in governance. Her proactive approach to these critical issues resonated with many Ghanaians who yearn for change and reform.
In conclusion, the NPP reflected on the courageous activism and dedication Akua Donkor exhibited throughout her life, expressing prayers for her soul to find peace in the afterlife. They acknowledged her legacy as a fearless advocate for her country and the rights of women, citing her life as a testament to the possibilities that exist in Ghana for those willing to strive for change. As the nation processes the loss of such a significant figure, her contributions to political discourse and her relentless spirit continue to inspire many across the country, urging Ghanaians to carry forward her vision of an equitable and progressive society.
