Liam Og O hAnnaidh, who performs as Mo Chara, is accused of displaying a flag in support of Hezbollah at a gig in November last year. Hundreds of Kneecap supporters waved flags and carried banners as he arrived at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, with demonstrations also held in Dublin. The Metropolitan Police have imposed conditions restricting where outside the court protests can take place to prevent serious disruption.

O hAnnaidh arrived with fellow Kneecap members Naoise O Caireallain and JJ O Dochartaigh. Security staff ushered him into the building as photographers surrounded the entrance. In court, he confirmed his name, date of birth and address at the start of the hearing. Outside, hundreds of supporters waved ‘Free Mo Chara’ signs, displayed Palestine and Irish flags, and a megaphone carried their chants.

Kneecap criticised the police measures, describing them as a calculated political decision intended to portray support for the group as troublesome and urged supporters to comply with all instructions. The group noted that O hAnnaidh’s previous appearance at the same court in June drew a festival-like atmosphere, with bandmates present; he has not yet entered a plea to the charge.