Lincoln University Cancels Honorary Degree for Ghana's President Mahama Amid LGBTQ+ Concerns
Lincoln University in Pennsylvania has withdrawn its plan to confer an honorary doctorate on Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, citing concerns over his perceived stance on LGBTQ+ issues.
Lincoln University in Pennsylvania has canceled the scheduled visit of Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, during which he was to receive an honorary doctorate. The university cited "unforeseen circumstances" for the cancellation, which was announced just days before the planned ceremony on March 26, 2026.
The Ghanaian Embassy in Washington, D.C., expressed "profound disappointment" over the decision, revealing that the university had communicated concerns raised by a group regarding President Mahama's perceived position on Ghana's Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, commonly referred to as the anti-LGBTQ+ bill, currently under parliamentary consideration.
Despite the withdrawal, President Mahama reaffirmed his deep respect for Lincoln University, acknowledging its historic role in shaping Ghana's leadership, notably as the alma mater of Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah. He emphasized that the enduring ties between Ghana and the university remain strong, stating that "whatever disagreements have arisen, Lincoln University holds a special place" in his heart.
Lincoln University has not provided further public clarification beyond its initial statement citing "unforeseen circumstances" for the cancellation.
