Kneecap’s Mo Chara Faces Terrorism Charge as Irish Rap Group Turns Courtroom Into Protest Stage

Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, a member of the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London facing a terrorism-related charge. Performing under the stage name Mo Chara, he is accused of displaying a flag associated with the proscribed organisation Hezbollah during a performance.

The 27-year-old was released on unconditional bail and is expected to return to court on 20 August. The courtroom was filled beyond capacity, with extra seating brought in for journalists, highlighting the public interest in the case.

Blending Irish Language, Sharp Lyrics, And Activism To Challenge Cultural And Political Norms

Mo Chara was supported at court by his bandmates, Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvaí, as well as a crowd of musicians, activists, and fans. Supporters gathered outside the courthouse, some wearing “Free Mo Chara” T-shirts and waving a combination of Kneecap and Palestinian flags.

Slogans such as “Free Speech, Free Palestine” and a van bearing the message “More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara” reflected a strong display of political and cultural solidarity. The slogan is a pointed reclamation of a historically racist phrase once seen outside UK lodging houses.

In a social media post from May, Kneecap stated their intention to fight the charge, denying any wrongdoing and promising a strong legal defense. They also announced they had “plastered” London with messages of support for Mo Chara. Their courtroom appearance was clearly a calculated and symbolic statement, using clothing and crowd presence to highlight broader issues of free speech and political expression.

Kneecap Emerges as a Powerful Voice in Hip-Hop and Political Activism

Formed in 2017, Kneecap is known for blending Irish language with hip-hop, and for provocative lyrics that frequently address political and social themes. The group, consisting of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí, has often drawn controversy and critical acclaim.

Their rise to prominence recently inspired a semi-fictionalized film featuring actor Michael Fassbender, which won a BAFTA award in February 2025. Kneecap’s work often challenges British cultural and political narratives, making them prominent—and polarizing—figures in contemporary music.

Kneecap has been vocal in its political activism. Most recently, in April 2025, the group faced backlash for highlighting the war in Gaza during a performance at the Coachella music festival. Previously, in November 2024, they won a legal case against the UK government concerning the withdrawal of an arts grant, a decision made by then-Minister Kemi Badenoch. The band continues to use its platform to push boundaries and provoke dialogue around Irish identity, colonial history, and global political struggles.