Kneecap call for supporters at west Belfast press conference, as High Court to rule on rapper’s terror case this week
Controversy-courting rappers Kneecap have called supporters to gather in Belfast on Wednesday, when the High Court in London will say whether or not to overturn a decision that threw out a terrorism charge faced by member Liam Og O hAnnaidh.
The rapper, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, was accused of displaying a flag in support of banned terror group Hezbollah during a gig at the O2 Forum in north London on November 21, 2024.
The charge was dropped on a technicality in September last year, but in January the Crown Prosecution Service appealed against the decision at the High Court, with O hAnnaidh opposing the appeal.
The High Court’s decision will be given on Wednesday afternoon, the group said today.
The rap trio – consisting of O hAnnaidh, Naoise O Caireallain and JJ O Dochartaigh – posted on Instagram to announce a press conference off the Falls Road, scheduled for a few minutes after the ruling.
The band called for its supporters to show up at the press conference,
The post read: “This Wednesday at 2pm the British High Court will deliver its judgement in the appeal made by the Director of Public Prosecutions against the decision of the Chief Magistrate court judge who dismissed the case against Mo Chara.
“At 2.15 on Wednesday we invite media to come to Conway Mill in West Belfast for a press conference.
“We would love to also see supporters outside the Mill. We are forever grateful for the immense support we have received throughout the world during this entire witch-hunt, especially the thousands of people who gathered in London.
“We have always said we would fight them in their own courts and we would win. Let’s see if we have.”
The group signed off with “free Palestine”, and “free the six counties”.
Kneecap are known for their provocative lyrics and merchandise, as well as their championing of the Irish language and pro-Palestine stance.
Their performance at last year’s Glastonbury Festival, during which they chanted “f*** Keir Starmer”, led to an investigation by Avon and Somerset Police, which was eventually dropped.
They have also faced criticism for allegedly saying “kill your local MP” during a concert. Last year they apologised to families of murdered MPs and said they have “never supported” Hamas or Hezbollah.