Overview
- Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring ruled the proceedings unlawful and null, saying the court had no jurisdiction to try the charge.
- The allegation stemmed from a November 2024 London gig where Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, was accused of displaying a Hezbollah flag, which he has denied supporting.
- Defense lawyers argued consent from the Attorney General was granted after the deadline, and the judge rejected the prosecution’s contrary interpretation.
- The Crown Prosecution Service said it is reviewing the decision and noted an appeal could be considered, while the Metropolitan Police will assess implications for future cases.
- Supporters cheered inside and outside the court as the rapper condemned the case as political, and Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill publicly welcomed the ruling.