Today, Westminster Court adjourned the second court appearance of Kneecap member Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (aka Mo Chara), who is still on trial for alleged violations of the UK Terrorism Act. Despite concerns that the case now falls outside the statute of limitations, Magistrate Judge Paul Goldspring ordered a third appearance scheduled for next month, September 26.

Mo Chara's defense lawyers argued that the terrorism charges — which were supported by prosecution by a resurfaced video of a 2023 gig where Mo Chara allegedly flies the Hezbollah flag — had occurred just one day after the legal six-month time limit. Defense counsel Brenda Campbell KC also argued that the Attorney General had not given permission for the police to begin a case after he had been informed of the initial charges made on May 21, according to NME.

Prosecution argued that the charges still fall within the six-month time limit.

Goldspring acknowledged that he is "conscious and anxious" that many people — supporters and critics of Kneecap alike — want a "speedy resolution" to this case. But, he added, "I will reserve my judgment for a couple of weeks," per the Belfast Telegraph.

Protests in support of Kneecap began gathering yesterday outside Westminster Court, as well as added police presence. In anticipation for the court date, the Metropolitan Police enforced the Public Order Act on the perimeter of the building, restricting the legal boundaries of protest space to a corner of the front plaza.

"In our view this police action is designed to try and portray support for kneecap as somehow troublesome," said Kneecap in reponse yesterday on X. They continued:

"It is a calculated political decision the night before Mo Chara's court appearance.

"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."

This morning, several groups organized solidarity events for the artist and band that involved speeches, art demonstrations, chants, and more.

Speaking to a packed crowd of supporters after his second court appearance, Ó hAnnaidh said, "We know this story is more than just about me. It’s more than Kneecap; this is a story about Palestine and us as a distraction from the real story." He continued:

"We know, unfortunately, this story will end up in the media today — while Israel commits genocide at the same time. So, everybody, continue to speak about Palestine, free Palestine, thank you all for coming. Tiocfaidh ár lá."