Lincoln University has withdrawn plans to confer an honorary doctorate on President John Dramani Mahama following concerns over his perceived stance on LGBTQ+ issues, according to a statement from the Embassy of the Republic of Ghana in the United States.
The honorary degree was scheduled to be awarded during Mahama’s visit to the university on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
However, the Embassy disclosed that it received a last-minute communication from the institution indicating that concerns had been raised by a group regarding Mahama’s position on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, currently before Parliament.
In a statement issued on March 24, the Embassy expressed “profound disappointment” over the development, noting that the visit had been confirmed after extensive engagement between both parties.
According to the Embassy, preparations for the visit had already been completed, including a final walkthrough conducted just last week by officials from both the Embassy and the university.
“It is therefore both surprising and regrettable” that the concerns emerged at such a late stage, the statement said, adding that Mahama is already in the United States, having arrived in New York ahead of the planned engagement.
The Embassy further stressed that the issues cited by the university relate to an ongoing legislative process in Ghana and do not represent the position of any single individual.
It also highlighted Mahama’s track record, describing his leadership as grounded in democratic principles, respect for human rights, and inclusive dialogue.
While acknowledging the university’s right to uphold its institutional values and engage stakeholders, the Embassy expressed concern about the timing of the decision and the lack of prior engagement on the matter.
Lincoln University is yet to publicly respond in detail beyond the communication referenced by the Embassy.
The Embassy says it remains committed to dialogue and hopes the longstanding relationship between Ghana and the university will help guide a resolution.
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Story by Erica Odeenyin Odoom | univers.ug.edu.gh
