Malcolm Offord apologises for homophobic joke amid election pressure

EDINBURGH (Azat TV) – Malcolm Offord, leader of Reform UK in Scotland, issued a public apology on March 24, 2026, for a homophobic joke he made in 2018 about the late pop star George Michael’s partner, Fadi Fawaz. The resurfacing of this joke has ignited widespread political condemnation as Offord campaigns for election to the Scottish Parliament in May, raising serious questions about his suitability for office and Reform UK’s reputation in Scotland.

Malcolm Offord’s homophobic joke resurfaces during election campaign

Offord’s controversial remark was made during a Burns Night speech at the London Scottish rugby club in 2018, where he was serving as chairman. The joke targeted Fadi Fawaz, mocking the grieving partner of George Michael shortly after the singer’s death. Witnesses described the comment as “crude,” “in bad taste,” and “insulting,” with some recalling Offord appeared intoxicated during the speech. Offord has admitted the joke was “clumsy” and “intended to be funny through being edgy and shocking,” but acknowledged it caused discomfort and regret.

Political leaders condemn Offord’s remarks and question his leadership

The fallout has been swift and severe. Scottish First Minister John Swinney labelled Offord “unfit” to be a Member of the Scottish Parliament or to lead a political party, calling the joke “completely and utterly intolerable.” Swinney warned the comment reflected a dangerous rise in intolerance and hate, which Reform UK allegedly embodies. Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Jamie Greene, speaking during the last First Minister’s Questions before the election recess, condemned the joke as emblematic of a broader societal issue with politicians promoting prejudice and hatred.

Scottish Labour’s equality spokesperson Paul O’Kane echoed calls for Offord to resign or face serious political consequences, branding Reform UK “the nasty party” due to such offensive remarks and other extremist candidate statements. SNP Cabinet Secretary Angus Robertson also criticised Offord for tolerating extremists within Reform UK ranks and called him “not fit for public office.” Despite the pressure, Reform’s sole MSP Graham Simpson expressed support for Offord’s leadership, refusing to comment on the joke publicly.

Offord’s apology and attempts at damage control

Offord has apologised publicly, stating he is not homophobic and that he immediately regretted the joke. To demonstrate his regret, he donated to the King’s Cross Steelers, an LGBT-inclusive rugby club, supporting their participation in an international tournament. Offord emphasised the joke was a mistake made in poor judgment, not a reflection of his personal beliefs. Nonetheless, political opponents argue the incident raises serious concerns over the party’s culture and values.

Reform UK has faced additional scrutiny over extremist views expressed by some of its Holyrood election candidates, including support for far-right figures and Islamophobic comments. This context has intensified criticism of Offord’s leadership at a moment when Reform UK is positioned to make significant gains in the May election, potentially becoming the second or third largest party in Scotland.

The broader implications for Reform UK and Scottish politics

The controversy surrounding Offord underscores the tension between political accountability and the boundaries of free speech in contemporary Scotland. As voters prepare to go to the polls, the issue has become a litmus test for Reform UK’s public image and credibility. The party’s ability to distance itself from intolerance and appeal to a broader electorate will be critical, particularly given the SNP’s firm standing and the complex political landscape ahead.

This episode highlights how past remarks, even made in private or informal settings, can resurface with significant consequences in political campaigns. It underscores the increasing demand for politicians to uphold standards of respect and inclusivity, as well as the challenges parties face in managing controversial figures within their ranks.