Nana Konadu Shakes Kumasi

FORMER FIRST Lady, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings' immense popularity in the Garden City once again became obvious when she visited Kumasi on Sunday.

As is usually done whenever she visits the city, scores of her admirers especially women were heard chanting 'be bold, be bold' when they set eyes on the astute politician, who was splendidly dressed.

The president of the 31 st  December Women's Movement was in the city to take part in activities marking the 62 nd birthday of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor and other top politicians, businessmen both from Ghana and abroad as well as powerful traditional leaders were present for the historic event.

But Nana Konadu whose popularity in Kumasi and its surrounding areas seems to be increasing daily, was easily the toast of the event.

The former first lady who seemed appreciative of the wild cheers that greeted her wherever she went in the city smiled and waved back at her supporters.

It all started when she arrived at the St Cyprian's Anglican Church in Kumasi around 10:00am where a special thanksgiving service was being held in honour of the Asantehene.

The congregation upon setting eyes on her broke into load cheers that temporarily disrupted the service.

After the service, Nana Konadu had a hectic time returning to the Manhyia Palace where a birthday bash for Otumfuo with Amakye Dede performing was taking place in the afternoon.

Excited people, mostly the elderly present at the church were seen jostling one another in the hope of getting closer to Nana Konadu and possibly shaking her hand.

The former first lady was pleasantly surprised to see more people cheering her on when she arrived at the palace with people chanting her name.

Mrs. Rawlings who was to catch a flight to Accra left the exciting party before the event ended. And as she walked towards her waiting car, she was greeted with more chants of 'be bold, be bold.'

She was seen waving back at her fans even as the car was moving out of the Manhyia Palace for the Kumasi Airport.

Nana Konadu is widely rumored to be considering taking part in December's presidential elections as an independent candidate.

Political pundits believe she could make meaningful impact in the polls if people of Ashanti region rally behind her.

And if what transpired in Kumasi during the Asantehene's  birthday celebration is anything to go by their predictions just may come to pass if she decides to contest.

FROM I.F. Joe Awuah Jnr., Kumasi