Mahama’s honorary doctorate cancelled by Lincoln University over LGBTQIA stance

Lincoln University has cancelled the scheduled honorary doctorate conferment and visit of President John Dramani Mahama following last-minute concerns raised over his perceived position on LGBTQIA issues.

In a statement by the Ghana Embassy in the United States, officials expressed “profound disappointment” at the timing of the communication, which came just hours before the President’s planned visit on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

The statement noted that the visit, including the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree, honoris causa, had been arranged after extensive prior engagement between the Embassy and Lincoln University. “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,” the Embassy said.

“It is 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 statement added.

According to the Embassy, Lincoln University confirmed that these concerns had not arisen during earlier due diligence and vetting processes prior to extending the invitation to the Ghanaian President.

The statement emphasized the good faith in which President Mahama accepted the invitation. “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,” it said.

“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,” the statement added.

While acknowledging Lincoln University’s right to consult internal stakeholders and uphold institutional values, the Embassy stressed that the issues now raised concern ongoing legislative processes in 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 said.

The statement concluded by reaffirming the Embassy’s commitment to constructive dialogue and mutual respect, while expressing hope that the historic relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University will guide a thoughtful and balanced resolution of the matter.