Ghana MP Apologizes to Manchester United’s Harry Maguire for Mockery in Budget Debate

In a surprising turn of events, Ghanaian Member of Parliament, Isaac Adongo, issued a public apology to Manchester United’s Harry Maguire for mocking him during a budget debate last year. The MP, who drew parallels between Maguire’s on-field performances and Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia’s economic management, expressed regret for his previous comments.

Adongo’s Change of Tune

During a recent budget debate, Isaac Adongo took the opportunity to correct the record and offered unexpected praise for Harry Maguire. He acknowledged Maguire as a “transformational footballer” and emphasized his pivotal role as a “key player” for Manchester United.

However, Adongo did not refrain from continuing his criticism of Vice-President Bawumia, suggesting that Maguire had metaphorically moved to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) with a cup in hand.

The controversy began a year ago when Adongo compared Maguire to Vice-President Bawumia, stating that Maguire had become the “biggest threat at the centre of the Manchester United defence.” The video of this speech circulated widely on social media, leading to widespread criticism of Maguire.

Despite the initial mockery, several fellow footballers rallied in support of Harry Maguire. England manager Gareth Southgate condemned the treatment as “ridiculous” and commended Maguire’s contributions to the national team. Maguire’s mother also spoke out against the abuse, deeming it “disgraceful” and “unacceptable.”

Maguire’s Performance vs. Ghana’s Economic Crisis

Isaac Adongo’s apology comes at a time when Ghana is grappling with a severe economic crisis. Vice-President Bawumia, responsible for economic management, faced criticism as the country resorted to a $3 billion loan from the IMF amid soaring government debt.

The apology has stirred public reactions in Ghana, with some acknowledging Maguire’s improvement on the field while expressing skepticism about the economic management in Ghana. The comparison between a footballer and an economic figure has ignited discussions about the appropriateness of such analogies in political discourse.

Adongo, in his defense of the initial comparison, highlighted the Ghanaian government’s decision to increase taxes and tariffs as part of the IMF agreement. This move triggered public anger, leading to protests over the escalating cost of living and unemployment in the country.

Despite the economic challenges, Ghana’s governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has selected Mahamudu Bawumia as its candidate for the 2024 elections. If elected, he would be the first Muslim to contest the presidency under the NPP since the restoration of multi-party democracy in 1992. Bawumia aims to lead a “united and energized” NPP, presenting it as the transformative force needed for Ghana.