Lincoln University Withdraws Honorary Degree for President Mahama Over LGBTQ Concerns
Ghana Embassy expresses disappointment as Lincoln University cancels honorary doctorate for President Mahama over concerns linked to ongoing LGBTQ legislation
- Lincoln University withdraws the conferment of an honorary doctorate for President John Dramani Mahama over concerns about Ghana’s LGBTQ-related bill
- Ghana’s Embassy in the U.S. calls the decision surprising and regrettable, noting prior vetting and logistical arrangements had been completed.
- Embassy emphasizes that the issues relate to ongoing democratic legislative processes and expresses hope for a balanced resolution.
Ghana’s Embassy in the United States has expressed deep disappointment following Lincoln University’s decision to withdraw the conferment of an honorary doctorate (honoris causa) for President John Dramani Mahama.
The decision, announced just hours before President Mahama’s scheduled visit on Thursday, March 26, reportedly arose from concerns raised by a group at the University about the President’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely referred to as the anti-gay Bill currently before Parliament.
According to the Embassy, these concerns were not raised during Lincoln University’s earlier vetting and due diligence processes, despite extensive prior engagement between the University and the Ghanaian mission. Officials from both sides had conducted a full walkthrough just last week and finalized all logistical arrangements for the visit.
“It is both surprising and regrettable that such concerns have surfaced at this late stage, particularly with the President already in the United States in anticipation of the visit,” the Embassy stated.
The Embassy emphasized that President Mahama’s visit was accepted in good faith, following an official invitation from an institution with longstanding historical ties to Ghana, including its connection to the country’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah.
While acknowledging Lincoln University’s right to consult its internal stakeholders and uphold its values, the Embassy expressed concern that the issues raised relate to ongoing legislative processes in Ghana, which are subject to democratic debate and do not represent the personal stance of any individual.
President Mahama has been widely recognized for leadership rooted in democratic principles, respect for human rights, and inclusive dialogue on complex societal issues. The Embassy called it unfortunate that such concerns emerged at an advanced stage without prior engagement or clarification.
The Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to constructive dialogue and mutual respect, expressing hope that the historic relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University will guide a fair and balanced resolution.
