Irish band Kneecap have called out the Met Police after Public Order Act Conditions were issued against rapper and lead of the band, Mo Chara. The Irish artist is set to appear at the Westminster Magistrates Court on the morning of August 20 over terrorism charges made against him. This will be Mo’s second court appearance following his first one back in June.
Kneecap, known for their political stance and calls for actions, have been making the headlines for all the right political reasons this year. Mo Chara, real name Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, was released on unconditional bail after his first court appearance and being charged for terrorism after allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag whilst performing in November 2024.
The musicians have been some of the most vocal people and supporters of Palestine in the Israel genocide and sparked many comments after their speech during their Coachella set back in April. Since then and since Mo’s court appearances, many supporters came out both for the Irish band but also to show their support to Palestine which has prompted the Met Police to issue a Public Order Act conditions for today’s court date. Per their statement, those conditions are being put in place to “prevent serious disruption being caused by a protest” outside the court.
Fans were heard outside the Magistrates Court singing Irish Folk songs whilst holding signs that read “Free Palestine”, “Free Mo Chara” as well as “Defend Kneecap: Drop The Charges”. Palestinian flags were waved as cars on the main road actively beeped in support. Famous Paul Weller, Jam’s frontman was spotted amongst the supporters.
Kneecap have consistently denied supporting either Hezbollah or Hamas as they say they do not condone nor incite any violence, arguing that the footage from their November gig was taken out of context to distract people from the real problem at hand.
The band was also put under investigation after making remarks about members of parliament during their performances. When asked if he regretted said comments, Chara said: “Why should I regret it? It was a joke – we’re playing characters, it’s satirical, it’s a fucking joke. And that’s not the point. The point is, that wasn’t an issue until we said ‘Free Palestine’ at Coachella. That stuff happened 18 months ago, and nobody batted an eyelid.”
Today’s court proceedings will see the likes of Gurriers, Nadine Shah and Maverick Sabre to get up and speak in favour and support of Kneecap and Mo Chara.
