Ghanaian Bishops Support President after U.S. University Revokes Honorary Award
Lincoln University announced on March 19 that it would award an honorary doctorate to Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. The citation cited leadership in governance, democracy, and advocacy for reparatory justice tied to the transatlantic slave trade.
Award announcement and cancellation
The university highlighted a historical link. Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, once studied at Lincoln University.
On March 23 Lincoln University withdrew the offer. The revocation was reportedly linked to the president’s perceived position on the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
Details of the bill and timing
The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill criminalizes lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer or questioning persons. Ghanaian diplomatic representatives said concerns about the bill were raised late in the process.
They noted that vetting and visit preparations had been completed before the new concerns surfaced. The late timing drew criticism at home.
Responses from government and church leaders
President Mahama responded by expressing respect for Lincoln University despite the reversal. He did not escalate the matter publicly, according to reports.
The Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference issued a statement on March 27. The bishops praised the president’s international leadership and role at the United Nations.
Praise for UN work and reparatory justice
The bishops commended Mahama for helping to secure wide support for a UN resolution. The resolution addressed the enduring legacy of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.
The bishops framed that work as a commitment to justice, historical redress, and global solidarity for African peoples and the diaspora.
Church solidarity and broader concerns
The bishops publicly backed the Assemblies of God Church for its support of the president. They warned that decisions like this can affect historical and diplomatic ties between countries.
The Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference urged that such matters be handled with integrity and respect.
Context and implications
The episode drew attention to connections between academic honors and political controversies. Ghanaian bishops and other leaders voiced support for the president after a U.S. university revoked the honorary award.
Observers say the case underscores the diplomatic sensitivity of university decisions. It also revived discussions about Ghana’s domestic legislation and its international impact.
Reported by Filmogaz.com.
