The Embassy of Ghana in Washington has expressed disappointment after Lincoln University raised last-minute concerns about a planned visit by President John Dramani Mahama.
Mahama was scheduled to receive an honorary doctorate on March 26 following weeks of coordination between the university and the embassy. Officials said logistical arrangements had been finalized as recently as last week.
But the embassy said it was informed only hours ago that a group had raised objections to Mahama’s perceived position on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which is currently before Parliament. The university acknowledged the concerns had not surfaced during its earlier vetting process.
In a statement, the embassy noted Mahama’s invitation was accepted in good faith and highlighted Lincoln’s historic ties to Ghana, including its association with the country’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. It called the timing of the development “deeply concerning,” given Mahama’s arrival in the United States ahead of the ceremony.
The embassy said Mahama has demonstrated leadership rooted in democratic principles and respect for human rights, and urged that Ghana’s legislative process not be conflated with the views of a single individual. It added that Ghana remains committed to constructive dialogue and expressed hope that the longstanding relationship with Lincoln University will guide a balanced resolution.
