Ghana Embassy raises concern over last-minute objections to Mahama’s Lincoln University visit

The Embassy of Ghana in the United States has expressed concern over last-minute objections raised by Lincoln University ahead of a planned visit by President John Dramani Mahama.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the Embassy said the visit, scheduled for March 26, included the conferment of an honorary doctorate and had been agreed upon following prior engagements between both parties.

The Embassy stated that officials from Ghana and representatives of the university conducted a full walkthrough last week and finalised all logistical and programme arrangements ahead of the visit.

However, it said it subsequently received communication from the university indicating that concerns had been raised by a group over President Mahama’s perceived position on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, which is currently before Parliament.

According to the Embassy, the university indicated that these concerns had not been raised during earlier vetting processes prior to the invitation being extended.

The statement noted that the visit had been accepted in good faith following an official invitation from Lincoln University, which it described as having longstanding ties with Ghana, including its association with Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.

The Embassy said all preparations for the programme had been completed and described the timing of the development as worrying, particularly as it comes after arrangements had been concluded and with President Mahama already in the United States, having arrived in New York City ahead of the engagement.

While acknowledging the university’s right to engage its stakeholders and uphold its values, the Embassy said the concerns relate to ongoing legislative processes in Ghana, which are subject to democratic debate and do not represent the position of any single individual.

It added that President Mahama has consistently demonstrated leadership grounded in democratic principles, respect for human rights and inclusive dialogue, describing the emergence of the concerns at this stage as unfortunate.

The Embassy said it remains open to dialogue and mutual respect, expressing hope that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University will guide a balanced resolution of the matter.