The Assemblies of God, Ghana, has formally reacted to the decision by Lincoln University in Pennsylvania to withdraw a scheduled honorary doctorate degree for President John Dramani Mahama. The American institution reportedly rescinded the honor following concerns raised by a group within the university regarding Mahama’s perceived stance on Ghana’s Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill.
In a statement issued on March 25, 2026, and signed by General Secretary Rev. Dr. Ernest Birikorang, the church declared that the university’s decision actually serves as a badge of honor rather than a disgrace for both the former president and the denomination. The leadership likened the situation to the biblical apostles in Acts 5:41, who rejoiced after being counted worthy of suffering disgrace for their faith.
Key highlights from the church’s response include:
- Expression of Joy: The church stated its leadership and membership feel “nothing but joy” because Mahama was found worthy of global disdain for his “ironclad stand” against LGBTQ+ practices.
- Consistent Moral Stance: The church recalled Mahama’s position articulated before the 2024 elections, where he described homosexuality as “scripturally or biblically forbidden,” morally degrading, and culturally unacceptable.
- Call to Action: The Assemblies of God urged its members in both public and private sectors to remain resolute and never compromise their spiritual principles or moral values.
- National Prayer: The church further called on the Christian community to pray with “intensity and tenacity” for the nation to avoid what it termed the “sins of LGBTQ+” and their potential consequences.
The withdrawal occurred while President Mahama was already in the United States in anticipation of the ceremony, which was originally scheduled for March 26, 2026. The Ghana Embassy in Washington, D.C., also expressed disappointment, noting that the concerns were raised at a late stage after all logistical arrangements had been finalized.
