Rapper Mo Chara Returns to Court Over Alleged Terror Support

Rapper Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known professionally as Mo Chara, appeared in court today facing allegations of supporting a proscribed terror organization. The incident stems from a performance in November 2022 in London, where he reportedly displayed a flag associated with the militant group Hezbollah and made statements in support of both Hezbollah and Hamas.

Supporters of Óg Ó hAnnaidh have organized demonstrations outside of the Westminster Magistrates’ Court as well as in Dublin, Ireland. In response, the Metropolitan Police of London have imposed restrictions on where these demonstrations can occur, citing the need to “prevent serious disruption.” The rapper’s team criticized this move, suggesting it is a “calculated political decision” intended to portray their support as problematic.

In a statement, the trio expressed, “There is no basis for this; our last hearing was entirely peaceful and a loving show of solidarity with the most disruptive attendees the right-wing media.” They urged supporters to comply with police instructions despite viewing the limitations as “pitiful.”

During the previous court session, prosecutor Michael Bisgrove acknowledged that Óg Ó hAnnaidh has the right to express his opinions and show solidarity. However, he emphasized that the case concerns a specific allegation related to a video recording in which Óg Ó hAnnaidh allegedly displayed the Hezbollah flag while chanting, “up Hamas, up Hezbollah.”

Defending Óg Ó hAnnaidh, his lawyer Brenda Campbell argued that the charges are invalid due to the timing, as they were raised more than six months after the alleged incident. Campbell contended, “If we are right in relation to that, then this court has no jurisdiction and there ends the case.” As of now, Óg Ó hAnnaidh has not entered a plea regarding the charge.

Updates are expected throughout the day as the case unfolds, drawing significant attention from both supporters and the media.