A UK court has dismissed a terrorism-related charge against Liam O’Hanna, a member of the Northern Irish punk rap group Kneecap, sparking jubilation among fans and supporters who gathered in London.
The case, which drew widespread criticism, stemmed from allegations that O’Hanna displayed the flag of the Iran-backed Hezbollah group during a London concert in November.
He was charged in May under UK anti-terror laws, a move his lawyers described as both unlawful and politically motivated.
Delivering a 13-page ruling at Woolwich Crown Court in southeast London, Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled that the charge had been filed incorrectly and outside the proper legal framework.
“These proceedings were not instituted in the correct form. Consequently, the charge is unlawful and null. This court has no jurisdiction to try the charge,” Goldspring declared, prompting cheers from the public gallery.
Speaking outside the court to dozens of supporters, O’Hanna, 27, said the ruling was a victory not only for him but for freedom of expression.
“It was always about Gaza, about what happens if you dare to speak up. Your attempts to silence us have failed because we’re right and you’re wrong,” he told the crowd.
His lawyer, Darragh Mackin, echoed the sentiment, insisting the prosecution was politically driven: “This case was always a political persecution masquerading as a prosecution. This is not just a victory for Kneecap, it’s a victory for freedom of expression.”
The verdict was met with chants, applause, and celebrations, underscoring the band’s defiance and the strong support it enjoys for its outspoken political stances, particularly its advocacy for Palestinians.
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