A terrorism charge against a member of the Irish rap group Kneecap for allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag was dismissed by a London court due to being filed after the legal time limit. Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, was accused of waving the flag during a London concert in November 2024. The 27-year-old was charged under the Terrorism Act in May for allegedly supporting a banned organization by displaying its symbol. However, the court ruled the charge invalid as it exceeded the six-month time limit for such cases.
The judge declared the charge unlawful and lacking jurisdiction for trial, leading to cheers from the audience. The Canadian parliamentary secretary, Vince Gasparro, referenced this case when announcing the ban on Kneecap from entering Canada, citing their alleged support for terrorist groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, which he stated contradicts Canadian values and laws.
Kneecap expressed surprise at the ban announcement, stating they had not received official communication from the Canadian government. Despite this, the group’s upcoming shows in Toronto and Vancouver were canceled, with ticket holders assured of full refunds. Ó hAnnaidh, along with his bandmates, celebrated the court’s decision outside Woolwich Crown Court, emphasizing that the issue was not about terrorism but about raising awareness for Gaza.
Kneecap’s politically charged performances, including their controversial statements at various events, have stirred debate. Their pro-Palestinian stance and criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza have drawn both support and criticism. The group’s tour dates in the U.S. were recently canceled, following similar controversies in the UK related to political remarks made during performances.