Lincoln University withdraws Honorary Degree for Mahama over LGBTQ concerns

The Embassy of Ghana in the United States has expressed deep disappointment over a last-minute decision by Lincoln University to withdraw its planned conferment of an honorary doctorate degree (honoris causa) on President John Dramani Mahama.

According to the Embassy, the decision was communicated just hours before the President’s scheduled visit on Thursday, March 26, despite weeks of preparation and coordination between both parties. The sudden reversal has raised concerns about the timing and process that led to the withdrawal.

The University’s decision is reported to have been influenced by concerns raised by a group within the institution regarding President Mahama’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which is currently before Parliament. The Embassy, however, noted that these concerns were not brought up during earlier stages of engagement, including due diligence and vetting processes conducted prior to finalising the visit.

Officials from the University and the Ghanaian mission had recently completed a full walkthrough of the programme and logistics, with all arrangements reportedly concluded just a week before the planned event. This, the Embassy said, makes the timing of the withdrawal particularly surprising.

“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 further explained that President Mahama had accepted the invitation in good faith, recognising Lincoln University as an institution with long-standing historical ties to Ghana. Notably, the University is associated with Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, who studied there, making the planned visit symbolically significant.

While acknowledging the University’s right to consult its internal stakeholders and uphold its institutional values, the Embassy expressed concern that the issues raised relate to an ongoing legislative process in Ghana. It stressed that such matters are subject to democratic debate and do not represent the unilateral position of any single individual.

The statement also highlighted that President Mahama has consistently been recognised for leadership grounded in democratic principles, respect for human rights, and a commitment to inclusive dialogue on complex societal issues. The Embassy described it as unfortunate that concerns about his perceived position emerged so late, without prior engagement or an opportunity for clarification.

Despite the setback, the Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining constructive dialogue and mutual respect in its relations with the University. It expressed hope that the longstanding historical relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University would guide efforts toward a balanced and respectful resolution of the matter.