Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, better known by his stage name Mo Chara, a member of the Irish-language rap group Kneecap, has been released on unconditional bail after facing a terror-related charge at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London.
The 27-year-old artist is accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah, a proscribed terrorist organization under UK law, during a recent live performance in London.
The Court Appearance
Wearing a black and white keffiyeh and dark sunglasses, Mo Chara appeared in court flanked by fellow band members Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin) and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh), all of whom stood united in solidarity. The courtroom was filled to capacity, prompting staff to bring in extra chairs for media personnel due to intense public interest.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring released Ó hAnnaidh on unconditional bail and instructed him to return to court on 20 August for the next hearing. No plea was entered during this initial appearance.
Public Support and Protest
Outside the courthouse, crowds of musicians, activists, and supporters rallied in support of the rapper. Many waved Palestinian flags, Irish tricolours, and held signs that read “Free Mo Chara” and “Defend Kneecap”.
Demonstrators also wore custom T-shirts supporting Mo Chara, and a van passing by drew loud cheers as it displayed the slogan:
“More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara” – a satirical twist on a racist phrase once infamously seen outside British lodging houses in the 1950s.
Large green flags emblazoned with “Free Speech, Free Palestine” rippled above the crowds, as Kneecap’s presence once again sparked political conversation well beyond the courtroom.
Kneecap: “We Will Vehemently Defend Ourselves”
In a previous social media statement, Kneecap rejected the charge entirely:
“We deny this ‘offence’ and will vehemently defend ourselves.”
The group claims the case is part of a wider attack on artistic expression, political activism, and the Irish identity, especially given their outspoken support for Palestinian rights and criticism of British government policies.
Who Are Kneecap?
Formed in 2017, Kneecap is a trio of Belfast-based rappers known for performing in Irish (Gaeilge) and blending hard-hitting hip-hop with political commentary, satire, and nationalist messaging.
The group rose to international recognition through viral tracks, provocative merchandise, and unapologetically Irish themes. Their semi-fictionalized rise to fame was recently dramatized in a film starring Michael Fassbender, which won a BAFTA in February 2025.
Global Headlines & Previous Controversies
Kneecap made headlines earlier this year at Coachella, where they used their stage time to highlight the ongoing war in Gaza—drawing both praise and criticism for their political outspokenness.
In November 2024, the group also successfully challenged a UK government decision to withdraw an arts grant, winning a legal case against then-minister Kemi Badenoch.
What’s Next?
With a return to court set for August, Mo Chara’s legal team is expected to contest the charge, citing freedom of expression and the artistic nature of the performance.
Meanwhile, Kneecap remains defiant. Posters, murals, and online messages have popped up across London and Belfast bearing slogans like “Free Mo Chara,” as the case now sits at the crossroads of music, identity, politics, and free speech.
As pressure builds and eyes from both sides of the Irish Sea remain fixed on the outcome, one thing is clear—Kneecap has once again made sure their voice, and message, cannot be ignored.
Written By Joe Brens
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