Lincoln University has reportedly raised last-minute concerns regarding Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama’s perceived stance on Ghana’s ongoing Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, prompting a strong response from the Embassy of the Republic of Ghana in the United States.

The issues were raised only hours before the president’s scheduled visit to the university on Thursday, March 26, 2026, which includes the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree, honoris causa.

The embassy described the timing of Lincoln University’s communication as “both surprising and regrettable,” noting that all arrangements for the visit had already been completed after extensive coordination.

According to the embassy, officials from Ghana, together with representatives of Lincoln University, conducted a full walkthrough last week to finalize all logistical and programmatic plans in preparation for the President’s visit.

The university reportedly indicated that the concerns were raised by a group of stakeholders regarding President Mahama’s position on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.

However, the embassy emphasized that these issues did not arise during Lincoln University’s earlier due diligence and vetting process prior to extending the invitation to the president.

In its statement, the embassy placed on record several points:

- President Mahama accepted the university’s invitation in good faith, following an official request from Lincoln University, an institution with deep historical ties to Ghana, including its distinguished association with Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

- All preparations for the visit had been duly completed, reflecting a shared commitment to the success of the engagement.

- The timing of the university’s concerns is particularly troubling as President Mahama is already in the United States, having arrived in New York in anticipation of the visit.

While the embassy acknowledged Lincoln University’s right to engage internal stakeholders and uphold its institutional values, it also emphasized that the concerns raised relate to ongoing legislative processes in Ghana.

“These are matters subject to democratic deliberation and are not the unilateral position of any one individual,” the statement read.

The embassy further highlighted President Mahama’s consistent track record of leadership grounded in democratic principles, respect for human rights, and inclusive dialogue on complex societal issues. It expressed regret that these concerns emerged at such an advanced stage, without prior engagement or clarification.

“While we respect the university’s right to consult its stakeholders, the timing and nature of these concerns risk undermining the longstanding and historic relationship between Ghana and Lincoln University,” the embassy said.

The statement concluded by reaffirming the Embassy’s commitment to constructive dialogue and mutual respect. It expressed hope that the historic ties between Ghana and Lincoln University would guide a thoughtful and balanced resolution to the matter.