British prosecutors are seeking to reinstate a terrorism charge against Liam OHanna, a member of the Irish rap group Kneecap, after a judge dismissed the case last year. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) initiated a High Court challenge on Wednesday, arguing that a chief magistrate incorrectly dismissed the case in September due to a technical error.

OHanna, who performs under the name Mo Chara, was charged with displaying a flag of the Lebanese group Hezbollah during a Kneecap concert in London on November 21, 2024. Prosecutors allege this action violated the United Kingdom's 2000 Terrorism Act, which prohibits the display of symbols or flags associated with proscribed organizations. Hezbollah is a designated terrorist organization in the UK.

The specific technicality that led to the initial dismissal has not been publicly disclosed by the CPS. However, legal experts suggest it likely involved procedural issues related to the evidence presented or the interpretation of the Terrorism Act in the context of artistic expression. The CPS maintains that the display of the flag constituted a clear endorsement of a proscribed organization, regardless of the artistic context.

Kneecap, known for their politically charged lyrics and performances often addressing Irish identity and British rule in Northern Ireland, has garnered both critical acclaim and controversy. Supporters of the group argue that the charge is an attempt to stifle artistic expression and target Irish political views. The group has not yet issued an official statement regarding the renewed legal challenge.

The High Court hearing on Wednesday involved legal arguments from both the CPS and OHanna's defense team. The judges are now considering the arguments and are expected to issue a ruling in the coming weeks. If the High Court overturns the previous dismissal, the case against OHanna will proceed to trial. If the High Court upholds the dismissal, the CPS will have exhausted its legal options in this matter.