A US university has cancelled plans to confer an honorary doctorate on former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, sparking criticism from Ghana’s embassy in Washington.
Lincoln University withdrew the honour just hours before a scheduled ceremony on 26 March, while Mr Mahama was already in the United States. The embassy expressed disappointment, stating the decision came as a surprise after all preparations had been completed.
Reports suggest the reversal followed objections from a group within the university over Mr Mahama’s perceived stance on Ghana’s proposed Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill. Ghanaian officials noted that the issue had not been raised during earlier engagements.
The embassy highlighted the long-standing relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University, including its historical connection to Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. It stressed that the controversy relates to an ongoing legislative process, not the position of a single individual.
Defending Mr Mahama, the embassy described his leadership as grounded in democratic values and dialogue. It also expressed hope that strong ties between both sides would help resolve the situation.
