Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, more widely known by his stage name Mo Chara, is a 27-year-old Irish rapper and a member of the hip-hop group Kneecap, hailing from West Belfast. The group, formed in 2017, consists of Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap (Naoise Ó Cairealláin), and DJ Próvaí (JJ Ó Dochartaigh). Kneecap has gained recognition for their unique blend of Irish and English lyrics, infused with politically charged and satirical commentary. Their music often delves into themes related to Irish identity, culture, and the socio-political landscape of Northern Ireland.
Kneecap's rise to fame has been marked by both critical acclaim and controversy. They have been praised for their energetic live performances and their role in invigorating the Irish-language cultural scene, particularly in Northern Ireland, where the status of the language remains a sensitive political issue. Celebrated figures like Elton John have lauded their "energy" and "vitality". In 2024, the group released a film, "Kneecap," a fictionalized retelling of their formation, starring Michael Fassbender. The film garnered numerous accolades, including a BAFTA for outstanding debut by a British writer, director, or producer, and four IFTA awards.
However, Kneecap has also faced criticism and censorship throughout their career. They have been condemned for wearing balaclavas on stage, a symbol often associated with Irish republicanism, and for commissioning a mural depicting a burning Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) Land Rover, which some viewed as glorifying terrorism. The band's lyrics, often laden with expletives and drug references, have also drawn criticism.
Recently, Kneecap has been under increased scrutiny for allegedly making provocative political statements during their performances. A video surfaced online purportedly showing a band member shouting "Up Hamas, up Hezbollah," phrases that have sparked outrage, as both organizations are proscribed as terrorist groups in the UK. In response, Kneecap has stated that they have "never supported Hamas or Hezbollah" and accused establishment figures of taking their comments out of context to "manufacture moral hysteria" due to the band's criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza.
The latest development in this series of controversies is the charge against Liam O'Hanna for a "terror offence." On May 21, 2025, the Metropolitan Police in London confirmed that O'Hanna had been charged under the Terrorism Act 2000 for allegedly displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah during a performance at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town, London, on November 21, 2024. According to the police, O'Hanna displayed the flag "in such a way or in such circumstances as to arouse reasonable suspicion that he is a supporter of a proscribed organization." He is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on June 18.
The charge against O'Hanna carries a maximum penalty of six months in prison and/or a fine of up to £5,000. Kneecap has responded to the charge with a statement denouncing it as "political policing" and a "carnival of distraction" by the UK authorities. The group maintains their innocence and vows to "vehemently defend" themselves against the accusation. They also used the opportunity to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating that the focus on their case is a distraction from the more pressing issue of the suffering of the Palestinian people.
The incident has already had repercussions for Kneecap, with several of their scheduled performances being canceled. Calls have also been made by some British lawmakers to remove the group from the lineup of the Glastonbury Festival. The case against Liam O'Hanna is ongoing, and the outcome remains to be seen. It is certain, however, that this controversy will further cement Kneecap's reputation as a provocative and politically charged group that challenges the status quo through their music and performances.
