The Embassy of Ghana in the United States has confirmed that Lincoln University has rescinded its earlier decision to confer an honorary doctorate on President John Dramani Mahama, citing concerns linked to his perceived stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
The honorary degree, which had already been formally accepted, was withdrawn ahead of a scheduled ceremony, despite all logistical and programme arrangements having been completed. The development comes at a time when President Mahama is already in the United States in response to the university’s invitation.
According to the Embassy, the concerns raised by the university relate to Ghana’s ongoing legislative process on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, currently before Parliament. The Embassy emphasised that such a process reflects Ghana’s democratic system and should not be interpreted as the position of a single individual.
In a statement, the Embassy expressed disappointment over the decision, particularly given the advanced stage at which the withdrawal occurred and the absence of prior engagement to clarify any issues.
While acknowledging Lincoln University’s right to act in line with its institutional values, the Embassy described the timing and manner of the decision as regrettable. It further noted that President Mahama’s leadership has consistently been guided by democratic principles, respect for human rights, and inclusive dialogue on complex national issues.
The Embassy also underscored the longstanding historical ties between Ghana and Lincoln University, including its association with Ghana’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah, expressing hope that the relationship will continue to be anchored in mutual respect and understanding.
Read the statement in full below:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ghana Embassy Expresses Disappointment Over Lincoln University’s Late Concerns Regarding Visit of H.E. John Dramani Mahama
Washington, D.C. | March 24, 2026
The Embassy of the Republic of Ghana in the United States wishes to express its profound disappointment regarding a last-minute communication received from Lincoln University concerning the scheduled visit of the President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, on Thursday, March 26, 2026.
The visit, which includes the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree, honoris causa, had been agreed upon following extensive prior engagement between the University and the Embassy. Indeed, only last week, officials of the Embassy, together with representatives of Lincoln University, conducted a full walkthrough and finalized all logistical and programmatic arrangements ahead of the President’s visit.
It is therefore both surprising and regrettable that, just hours ago, the Embassy received a communication from the University indicating that concerns had been raised by a group regarding President Mahama’s perceived position on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, currently before Parliament.
The University has indicated that these concerns did not surface during its earlier due diligence and vetting processes prior to extending the invitation to President Mahama.
The Embassy wishes to place on record the following:
•President Mahama’s visit was formally accepted in good faith, following an official invitation by Lincoln University, an institution with deep historical ties to Ghana, including its distinguished association with Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
•All preparations for the visit have been duly completed, reflecting a shared commitment to the success of this important engagement.
•The timing of this development is deeply concerning, particularly as it arises after all arrangements have been concluded and with the President already in the United States—having arrived in New York in anticipation of honoring the University’s invitation.
While the Embassy acknowledges Lincoln University’s right to engage its internal stakeholders and uphold its institutional values, we note with concern that the issues now being raised relate to ongoing legislative processes within Ghana, which are subject to democratic deliberation and are not the unilateral position of any one individual.
President Mahama has consistently demonstrated leadership grounded in democratic principles, respect for human rights, and inclusive dialogue on complex societal issues. It is therefore unfortunate that these concerns have emerged at such an advanced stage, without prior engagement or clarification.
The Embassy remains committed to constructive dialogue and mutual respect. We trust that the longstanding and historic relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University will guide a thoughtful and balanced resolution of this matter.
