First Minister John Swinney targeted in kneecap attack at Glasgow event

Irish rap group Kneecap made their feelings known about First Minister John Swinney during a recent performance in Glasgow after being removed from the TRNSMT music festival lineup. The trio, which consists of Mo Chara and Móglaí Bap, faced the axe from the festival due to an ongoing investigation by counter-terror police involving rapper Mo Chara and allegations of terrorism offenses related to displaying a Hezbollah flag during a performance.

Despite their TRNSMT dismissal, Kneecap quickly booked a gig at Glasgow’s O2 Academy, selling out within minutes. During their performance, Mo Chara, also known as Liam O hAnnaidh, engaged with the crowd by questioning, “What’s your first minister’s name?” He defiantly declared, “They stopped us playing TRNSMT but they can’t stop us playing Glasgow.”

The group had faced criticism previously when a video from a 2023 show surfaced, depicting a member making controversial statements such as, “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.” These remarks prompted calls from SNP Leader John Swinney to remove Kneecap from scheduled appearances, citing safety concerns raised by authorities.

Kneecap’s performances often touch on political and social issues, with a particular focus on the conflict in Gaza. The group staunchly believes that the legal actions taken against them, including investigations by both the Met Police and Police Scotland, are a direct result of their outspoken views on Palestine.

Despite the TRNSMT setback, Kneecap remains scheduled to perform at upcoming events such as the 2000 Trees rock festival, Wythenshawe Park in Manchester, and Belfast Vital – with the latter coinciding with O hAnnaidh’s next court appearance. The group’s continued presence on the music scene indicates their commitment to expressing their beliefs and engaging with audiences through their powerful performances and challenging messages.

The trio’s unwavering dedication to speaking out on important issues through their music has garnered them a strong following, evident in the swift ticket sales for their Glasgow gig. Their ability to connect with fans and provoke thought through their lyrics and performances showcases their unique approach to music as a platform for social commentary and activism.

As Kneecap continues to navigate challenges and scrutiny, their resilience and determination to share their perspectives on critical topics remain unwavering. Their music serves as a testament to the power of art in sparking conversations, challenging norms, and advocating for change in society.