Judgment Reserved In Kneecap Rapper’s Terror Charge Case

Kneecap star Mo Chara denies displaying Hezbollah flag at London gig as judge reserves ruling on terror support charge. Next hearing set for Sept 26.

A judge has reserved judgment in the case of Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh – better known as Mo Chara of the Irish language rap group Kneecap – who faces a charge of supporting a proscribed terrorist organisation.

Ó hAnnaidh, 27, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday for the second time in connection with the allegation that he displayed a Hezbollah flag during a performance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, north London, last November. He denies any wrongdoing.

The west Belfast musician was greeted outside court by several hundred supporters before entering the building for the hearing. Ó hAnnaidh was permitted to use an Irish language interpreter for the proceedings.

During proceedings, his defence team argued that the charge had been laid out of time and should therefore be dismissed. Lawyers contended that the offence, which carries a six-month statutory limit for prosecution, was brought one day too late. Prosecutors rejected that submission, insisting the charge had been issued within the permitted period.

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring told the court he recognised the need for a “speedy resolution” but said he would not deliver an immediate decision. “I will reserve my judgment for a couple of weeks,” he said.

The next hearing is scheduled for Friday 26 September at 10am.