Kneecap’s Mo Chara Set for UK Terror Case Ruling Next Month

## Overview of Mo Chara’s Case

A ruling regarding Kneecap member Mo Chara’s terror case in the UK is expected next month. This follows arguments from both sides about whether the charges were filed within the required six-month timeframe.

## Recent Court Appearance

Mo Chara, whose real name is Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, attended Westminster Magistrates Court in London on August 20. The charge against him relates to a Kneecap concert in London in November 2024, where he allegedly displayed a Hezbollah flag on stage. The London Metropolitan Police were only notified of this incident in April 2025, leading to charges being filed shortly thereafter.

### Legal Proceedings

According to *The Belfast Telegraph*, Chara’s defense is looking to have the case dismissed on technical grounds. They argue that the charge was filed one day too late, after the six-month limit had expired. Prosecutors Claim that it falls within the established timeframe.

The core of the argument concerns how and when a charge is filed under the U.K.’s Terrorism Act. Chara’s legal team contends he did not officially learn of his charges until May 21, which should not count as the official date since the Attorney General had not yet granted permission for prosecution. Conversely, the Crown Prosecution Service claims the May 21 charge was valid.

## Judge’s Remarks and Subsequent Hearing

At the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Paul Goldspring acknowledged the need for a prompt resolution but decided to reserve his judgment for a couple of weeks. The next hearing is slated for September 26.

### Public Support and Protests

Chara arrived at the courthouse with his bandmates Móglaí Bap and DJ Próvai. Ahead of the hearing, the Metropolitan Police enforced a restriction zone for protesters to minimize disruption. Kneecap expressed their gratitude for public support via social media, seeing the police’s actions as a distraction from more significant issues such as state-supported conflicts.

## Support for Chara and Allegations Denied

Despite the restrictions, hundreds of supporters gathered outside the court, many holding signs that read “Free Mo Chara” while waving flags.

Chara had previously been released on unconditional bail in June after an initial court appearance on June 18. During that preliminary hearing, he confirmed his name and addressed procedural matters.

### Reactions to Charges

Both Chara and Kneecap have firmly rejected the charges against them, stating they do not support groups like Hamas or Hezbollah. They contend that footage from the November concert was manipulated and that the terror allegations are a backlash due to their vocal opposition to the British and U.S. governments’ actions in Gaza.

## Final Thoughts

In recent social media updates, Kneecap highlighted ongoing violence in Palestine and criticized the British government. They vowed to combat the charges, emphasizing the historical context behind such allegations in Northern Ireland.

What are your thoughts on the ongoing developments in Mo Chara’s case?