The President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, as the first gentleman of the land, embodies national values, authority, and the cultural identity of the country on the international stage. His position on LGBTQ+ issues is well known, and no external pressure can compel him to change it.
Concerns have been raised following the decision by Lincoln University to withdraw its honorary PhD award to the President. This decision has been described as unfortunate, particularly as the President neither requested nor lobbied for the academic honour.
Critics argue that the University’s action places it on the wrong path and risks alienating African countries that may view the move as disrespectful to their cultural values and sovereignty. They stress that no external institution or country has the authority to impose cultural practices or value systems that do not align with the beliefs of the majority of citizens.
Speaking on Adekyee Mu Nsem, a morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra, Dr. Jonathan Asante Otchere, Political Analyst, Senior Lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, and Executive Director of the African Institute of Strategic Studies, strongly criticised the decision.
He argued that the directive to cancel the ceremony casts a negative image on the University, suggesting that it does not fully embrace cultural diversity. He further called on African countries to consider blacklisting the institution.
Dr. Otchere also urged Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry to initiate diplomatic steps, including formally requesting an apology from the University to the President, whom he described as a symbol of authority and a committed Pan-Africanist.
Looking ahead, he suggested that Ghana should take a firm stance by pursuing a campaign of negative publicity against institutions perceived to discriminate against African cultural values, particularly those relating to traditional views on marriage and family.
In a related development
Ghana’s Embassy in the United States has expressed deep disappointment over the decision by Lincoln University to withdraw the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree (honoris causa) on President John Dramani Mahama.
The decision, communicated just hours before the scheduled visit on Thursday, March 26, was reportedly influenced by concerns raised within the University regarding the President’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, widely known as the anti-gay bill currently before Parliament.
According to the Embassy, these concerns were not raised during the University’s earlier due diligence and vetting processes, despite extensive prior engagement between both parties. Officials had even conducted a full walkthrough and finalised all logistical and programme arrangements just a week earlier.
“It is both surprising and regrettable that such concerns have surfaced at this late stage, particularly with the President already in the United States in anticipation of the visit,” the Embassy said in a statement.
The Embassy emphasised that the visit was accepted in good faith, following an official invitation from an institution with deep historical ties to Ghana, including its association with Kwame Nkrumah.
While acknowledging the University’s right to uphold its internal values, the Embassy expressed concern that the issues raised relate to ongoing legislative processes in Ghana. These processes, it noted, are subject to democratic debate and do not represent the unilateral position of any individual.
President Mahama has consistently been recognised for leadership grounded in democratic principles, respect for human rights, and inclusive dialogue on complex societal issues. The Embassy described it as unfortunate that such concerns were raised at an advanced stage without prior engagement or clarification.
It reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to constructive dialogue and mutual respect, expressing hope that the longstanding relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University will guide a balanced and respectful resolution.