Following Lincoln University’s choice to revoke the honorary doctorate degree, honoris causa, it had given to President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s Embassy in the United States has conveyed its deep sadness.
The choice, which was announced only hours before the planned trip on Thursday, March 26, is said to have been influenced by concerns made by a group at the University about President Mahama’s perceived stance on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill of Ghana, often known as the anti-gay Bill, which is now before Parliament.
In spite of significant prior interaction between the University and the Ghanaian delegation, the concerns were not expressed during Lincoln University’s prior due diligence and screening procedures, according to the Embassy.
Prior to the tour, last week, officials from both sides had completed a comprehensive walk-through and worked out all logistical and programmatic details.
In a statement, the Embassy said, “It is both shocking and sad that such issues have arisen at such a late stage, especially with the President already in the United States in anticipation of the trip.”
The Embassy emphasized that President Mahama’s visit was accepted in good faith after receiving an official invitation from a body with strong historical ties to Ghana, such as its connection to Kwame Nkrumah, the nation’s first president.
The Embassy acknowledged Lincoln University’s right to engage with internal stakeholders and uphold its values, but it also voiced worry that the issues raised are related to ongoing legislative processes in Ghana, which are open to democratic discussion and do not represent any one person’s unilateral stance.
President Mahama has always been known for his leadership style, which is based on democratic principles, respect for human rights, and open discourse about difficult social challenges. The Embassy stated that it was regrettable that these concerns came up so late in the process, without prior discussion or explanation.
The Embassy expressed its hope that the historic ties between Ghana and Lincoln University will lead to a fair conclusion to the issue, reiterating its dedication to mutual respect and constructive conversation.
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