BY Issah Olegor
A diplomatic row is brewing between Ghana and the United States following a last-minute development involving Lincoln University’s decision to withdraw—or reconsider—the conferment of an honorary doctorate on President John Dramani Mahama, reportedly over concerns tied to his perceived stance on the controversial Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
In a strongly worded statement issued on March 24, 2026, from Washington, D.C., the Embassy in the United States expressed “profound disappointment” at what it described as a sudden and unexpected communication from Lincoln University regarding Mahama’s scheduled visit on March 26.
Last-Minute Reversal After Full Preparations
According to the Embassy, the visit—which was to include the awarding of an honorary doctorate degree (honoris causa)—had been meticulously planned over several weeks, with both parties engaging extensively to finalize arrangements.
Just days before the scheduled ceremony, officials from the Embassy and representatives of Lincoln University reportedly conducted a comprehensive walkthrough to confirm logistical and program details, signaling that all was set for the high-profile engagement.
However, in a dramatic twist, the University reportedly communicated concerns raised by a group over Mahama’s alleged position on Ghana’s anti-LGBTQ+ bill—an issue that had not surfaced during earlier vetting processes.
The timing of the development has raised eyebrows, particularly as President Mahama is already in the United States, having arrived in New York in anticipation of honouring the invitation.
Embassy Pushes Back
The Ghanaian Embassy has rejected the basis of the concerns, emphasizing that the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill remains under parliamentary consideration in Ghana and does not represent the unilateral position of any individual, including the President.
It further stressed that Mahama has consistently demonstrated a commitment to democratic governance, human rights, and inclusive dialogue on sensitive societal matters.
Diplomatic sources suggest the Embassy is particularly troubled by what it perceives as a failure by the University to raise these issues during earlier engagements, only to do so at the eleventh hour when all preparations had been completed.
Historical Ties At Stake
The controversy is especially significant given Lincoln University’s long-standing historical relationship with Ghana.
The institution is notably linked to the first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who studied there and remains one of its most distinguished alumni.
This deep-rooted connection had made the planned honour for Mahama symbolically important, representing continuity in Ghana–U.S. academic and diplomatic relations.
Observers note that any breakdown in this engagement risks straining not only institutional ties but also broader cultural and diplomatic goodwill between the two countries.
LGBTQ+ Bill: The Underlying Flashpoint
At the centre of the dispute is the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, a controversial piece of legislation currently before Parliament. The bill has sparked intense debate both locally and internationally, with supporters framing it as a defense of cultural and family values, while critics argue it undermines fundamental human rights.
Mahama’s perceived position on the bill—whether accurately represented or not—appears to have triggered concerns among some stakeholders within the University community, ultimately influencing the institution’s decision.
Call For Dialogue
Despite the setback, the Ghana Embassy has struck a conciliatory tone, reaffirming its commitment to dialogue and mutual respect. It expressed hope that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University would help guide a “thoughtful and balanced resolution.”
