Accra, March 29, GNA – The Christian Council of Ghana has commended President John Dramani Mahama and criticised Lincoln University for withdrawing a planned honorary doctorate to be conferred on him.
A statement issued and signed by Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose, General Secretary of the Council, said the University’s decision, reportedly linked to the President’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues, was “deeply regrettable.”
It noted that the development, although unfortunate, “underscores the President’s principled stance in upholding his convictions as a Ghanaian and an African with respect to our moral values which frown upon LGBTQ+ activities.”
The statement described the action by Lincoln University as a “diplomatic misstep,” particularly as it came at an advanced stage of preparations.
“Inviting an incumbent Head of State and withdrawing the honour shortly before its conferment—particularly after international travel arrangements were already in place—falls short of the decorum expected of an institution of such standing,” it said.
The Council added that the decision conveyed “a sense of disregard not only for the President but for the dignity of Ghana.”
It recalled the historic ties between Ghana and Lincoln University, noting that Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah, was an alumnus of the institution.
The statement reiterated that Ghana remained a deeply religious society where cultural and faith values influenced perspectives on family and social issues.
It stressed that its position on LGBTQI+ matters reflected “sincerely held religious and cultural beliefs shared broadly across Ghanaian society,” adding that such convictions were “not expressions of hostility.”
The Council also expressed confidence that Parliament would revisit and pass the Family Values Bill, urging the President to act in line with his stated commitments.
It called on Lincoln University to review its decision and “take steps to restore the goodwill it has long enjoyed in Ghana and across Africa.”
GNA
29 March 2026
Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong