Lincoln University cancels Mahama’s honorary doctorate conferment over his anti-LGBTQ stance

The Ghana Embassy in the United States has expressed strong disappointment over a late communication from Lincoln University concerning the scheduled visit of Ghana’s former President, John Dramani Mahama.

The visit, slated for Thursday, March 26, was to feature the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree honoris causa on Mahama, following what the Embassy described as extensive prior engagements and planning between both parties.

According to the Embassy, preparations for the high-profile visit had already been finalized. Officials from the Embassy and representatives of Lincoln University reportedly conducted a full walkthrough just last week to confirm logistical and program arrangements.

However, in a surprising development, the Embassy disclosed that it received a last-minute notice from the University indicating that concerns had been raised by a group over Mahama’s perceived stance on Ghana’s controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which is currently under consideration by Parliament.

The University, according to the Embassy, noted that these concerns had not emerged during its earlier vetting and due diligence processes prior to extending the invitation.

In its response, the Embassy emphasized that Mahama accepted the invitation in good faith and highlighted the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University—an institution historically linked to Ghana through its association with the country’s first President, Kwame Nkrumah.

The Embassy also described the timing of the concerns as “deeply troubling,” particularly given that all arrangements had been concluded and Mahama had already arrived in the United States, landing in New York ahead of the scheduled event.

While acknowledging the University’s right to engage its stakeholders and uphold its values, the Embassy cautioned that the issues being raised relate to an ongoing legislative process in Ghana, not the position of any single individual.

It further defended Mahama’s record, stating that he has consistently demonstrated leadership rooted in democratic governance, human rights, and inclusive dialogue.

Despite the tensions, the Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement and expressed hope that the historic ties between Ghana and Lincoln University would help resolve the situation amicably.

The development has sparked discussions about the intersection of international diplomacy, academic institutions, and domestic policy debates, as both parties seek a way forward.