Kneecap Terrorism Charge Dismissed: New Single “No Comment” Released

Belfast rap group Kneecap has released a new single addressing a terrorism charge against one of its members. The case against member Mo Chara was dismissed by a London court in September. The charge stemmed from a 2024 concert where he was accused of displaying a Hezbollah flag.

The dismissal was a significant legal victory for the band. It allows them to continue their sold-out European tour without the legal cloud hanging over them.

Court Rules Charge Was Filed Too Late

The charge against Mo Chara, whose real name is Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, was thrown out on a technicality. Judge Paul Goldspring ruled the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) missed its filing deadline. The charge was brought one day after the legal time limit had expired.

This ruling rendered the charge unlawful and null. According to Reuters, the police were not made aware of the alleged incident until months after the concert. This delay ultimately led to the case’s collapse.

Political Context and Ongoing Legal Battle

The band claims the charge is part of a “political witch-hunt.” They connect it to their vocal criticism of Israel and solidarity with Palestine during their Coachella performance. The group stated the legal process appears driven by politicians and media.

Despite the dismissal, the legal fight is not over. The CPS has announced it will appeal the court’s decision. They argue an important point of law needs clarification, a move the band calls a waste of taxpayer money.

The dismissal of the Kneecap terrorism charge marks a pivotal moment for the group and free speech advocates. Their new single “No Comment” directly confronts their experience with the British state, ensuring this legal and political clash remains in the public eye.

Thought you’d like to know

What was Mo Chara of Kneecap charged with?

Mo Chara was charged with a terrorism offense. The charge alleged he displayed a Hezbollah flag at a 2024 London concert. The case was later dismissed by a judge.

Why was the Kneecap terrorism case dismissed?

The case was dismissed because prosecutors filed the charge too late. The Crown Prosecution Service missed the six-month legal deadline by one day. The judge declared the charge unlawful as a result.

What is Kneecap’s new song “No Comment” about?

The new single “No Comment” addresses the terrorism charge against Mo Chara. The band says it is about being harassed by the British state. They collaborated with Sub Focus on the track.

Is the legal case against Kneecap completely over?

No, the case is not completely over. The Crown Prosecution Service is appealing the dismissal. They believe a point of law needs to be clarified by a higher court.

How did Kneecap respond to the appeal?

The band called the appeal “unsurprising” and a political act. They described it as a massive waste of taxpayer money and police time. They maintain it is a state-backed witch-hunt.