Kneecap rapper Liam Og O hAnnaidh, widely known as Mo Chara, has been spared from a new terror trial as the High Court dismissed a Crown Prosecution Service appeal to revive the case. In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, two High Court judges upheld the initial decision to drop the charges against the musician and rejected the CPS appeal.
The artist was accused of exhibiting a flag in solidarity with Hezbollah, a banned terrorist group, during a performance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town in November 2024. Although the charge was dismissed in September last year, the CPS filed an appeal at the High Court in January, contesting the decision, with O hAnnaidh opposing the appeal.
Judge Goldspring concurred with O hAnnaidh’s legal team that the prosecutors were required to obtain the Attorney General’s approval before indicting the rapper, which was only sought and granted a day after informing him on May 21 that he would face a terror charge. This delay placed the charge outside the permissible six-month timeframe for bringing criminal charges against a defendant.
In their decision on Wednesday, Lord Justice Edis, alongside Mr Justice Linden, affirmed that the judge was correct in ruling out any summary-only offense alleged to have occurred on that date. They clarified that O hAnnaidh has not been prosecuted for the alleged conduct on September 21, 2025, and will not face trial, remaining neither convicted nor acquitted.
The ruling hinged on a narrow legal issue, as stated in the 13-page decision by Lord Justice Edis, emphasizing that it did not address whether the accused committed the offense outlined in the charge. Following the decision, O hAnnaidh, through his legal representatives, expressed gratitude for the support received and highlighted that the legal battle was not about public safety or terrorism but rather about advocating for Palestine and challenging hypocrisy.
Kneecap’s solicitor, Darragh Mackin from Phoenix Law, denounced the prosecution as an unlawful witch-hunt that has now concluded, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law amidst political pressures. The band affirmed their commitment to using their platform to raise awareness about Palestine, undeterred by any potential consequences resulting from the legal proceedings.
Supporters cheered the trio at a press conference in Belfast post-ruling, where the band reiterated their dedication to the Palestinian cause. Kneecap initially came together in Belfast and have released several singles, incorporating bold lyrics in both Irish and English. Despite previous controversies, including statements made at gigs, the group has clarified their stance and expressed regret where necessary.
The band’s resilience against legal challenges and their unwavering advocacy for Palestine have garnered global attention and support, positioning them as outspoken voices in the music industry.