Lincoln University withdraws Prez. Mahama honorary degree

Lincoln University has withdrawn its decision to confer an honorary doctorate on Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, just hours before his scheduled visit on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

Ghana’s Embassy in the United States expressed deep disappointment over the last-minute decision, noting that it followed concerns raised by a group within the university regarding the president’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely referred to as the anti-gay bill currently before Parliament.

According to the embassy, the concerns were not raised during earlier vetting and due diligence processes, despite what it described as extensive engagement between both parties.

Officials had already completed a full walkthrough and finalised all logistical arrangements ahead of the planned visit.

“It is both surprising and regrettable that such concerns have surfaced at this late stage, particularly with the president already in the United States,” the embassy said in a statement.

The mission emphasised that President Mahama accepted the honour in good faith, following an official invitation from the university, which shares historic ties with Ghana, including its association with Kwame Nkrumah.

While acknowledging the university’s right to uphold its values and consult stakeholders, the embassy stressed that the issues raised relate to an ongoing legislative process in Ghana and do not represent the position of any single individual.

Reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement, the embassy expressed hope that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University would guide a fair and balanced resolution.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith