A member of the rap band Kneecap has requested an Irish language interpreter for his next court appearance.
Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, also known as Mo Chara, appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court today, charged with a terror offence.
Mr Ó hAnnaidh was charged after it was alleged he displayed a flag supporting Hezbollah at one of the band's London gigs at the O2 Forum on November 21st, last year.
Kneecap
On Newstalk Breakfast, reporter Emily Keegan said there was a “really noticeable” presence of the band’s supporters outside the court.
“There are signs everywhere saying ‘Free Mo Chara’, ‘Defend Free Speech’, ‘Defend Kneecap’,” she said.
“There is a table set up calling for passersby to sign a petition, to drop the charges against Liam Óg.
“On my way here, I saw a van which said, ‘More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara’.
“There’s billboards popped up all around London - it’s a huge topic of conversation - you really can’t miss it if you’re here.”
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During his appearance, the prosecution said the charge against Mr Ó hAnnaidh has nothing to do with the band's support for Palestine, adding that Mo Chara has the right to voice his opinions on the matter.
The court was adjourned until August 20th, when it will hear arguments over its jurisdiction in this case.
Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh atfer leaving Westminster Magistrates Court, London. Picture by: AP Photo/Kin Cheung.The defence said it would argue the charge was brought after the six month limit and the rapper was released on unconditional bail, after making a request for an Irish language interpreter.
In a statement afterwards on social media, the band described the charge as a "witch hunt".
Main image: Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh leaves Westminster Magistrates Court London. Picture by: AP Photo/Kin Cheung.
