Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known to fans as "Mo Chara" of the Irish language hip-hop sensation Kneecap, has been released on unconditional bail after appearing in Westminster Magistrates' Court today on a terror-related charge reports the BBC. The 27-year-old rapper stands accused of displaying a flag in support of the proscribed organisation Hezbollah during a recent London performance.
Ó hAnnaidh arrived at court accompanied by his bandmates, Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin) and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), to a show of solidarity from supporters who applauded their appearance outside the London court. "We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves," the band stated in a social media post in May, a sentiment echoed by their "Free Mo Chara" T-shirts worn to court today.
The courtroom was packed, with additional seating brought in for the press, highlighting the significant public interest in the case. Outside, a diverse crowd of musicians, activists, and fans gathered, displaying "Free Speech, Free Palestine" banners, a mix of Palestinian and Kneecap flags, and even cheering a van emblazoned with the provocative slogan "More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara" – a defiant twist on a historically discriminatory phrase.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ordered Ó hAnnaidh to attend the next hearing, scheduled for August 20th. Despite the serious nature of the charge, the rapper's release on unconditional bail signals a moment of relief for the band and their dedicated following, who have reportedly "plastered" London with messages of support for Mo Chara. The case continues to draw considerable attention, underscoring the intersection of music, activism, and free speech.
Ó hAnnaidh arrived at court accompanied by his bandmates, Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin) and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), to a show of solidarity from supporters who applauded their appearance outside the London court. "We deny this 'offence' and will vehemently defend ourselves," the band stated in a social media post in May, a sentiment echoed by their "Free Mo Chara" T-shirts worn to court today.
The courtroom was packed, with additional seating brought in for the press, highlighting the significant public interest in the case. Outside, a diverse crowd of musicians, activists, and fans gathered, displaying "Free Speech, Free Palestine" banners, a mix of Palestinian and Kneecap flags, and even cheering a van emblazoned with the provocative slogan "More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara" – a defiant twist on a historically discriminatory phrase.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ordered Ó hAnnaidh to attend the next hearing, scheduled for August 20th. Despite the serious nature of the charge, the rapper's release on unconditional bail signals a moment of relief for the band and their dedicated following, who have reportedly "plastered" London with messages of support for Mo Chara. The case continues to draw considerable attention, underscoring the intersection of music, activism, and free speech.
