Oxford Union's New President, George Abaraonye, celebrated Charlie Kirk's Murder

George Abaraonye, the newly elected president of the Oxford Union, is facing intense backlash and calls for his resignation after allegedly celebrating the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and making statements interpreted as promoting political violence. The controversy erupted in the wake of Kirk's fatal shooting on September 10 during a speaking event at Utah Valley University, amplifying debates over free speech, political rhetoric, and extremism on campuses.

Abaraonye, who debated Kirk at the Oxford Union earlier this year, appearing in casual attire including joggers, slippers, and a t-shirt, posted messages shortly after the news broke, including “Charlie Kirk got shot, let’s f****ing go” and “loool,” according to screenshots shared widely online. These posts, which have since been deleted or led to account scrutiny, drew immediate condemnation from users who labeled him a "classless cretin," "disgusting creature," and "enormous loser." Critics argued the celebration was especially callous given Abaraonye's prior in-person encounter with Kirk.

Compounding the outrage, a video surfaced showing Abaraonye stating: "They should - and they must - be taken down, by any means necessary. They are cancers in society!" referring to conservatives or political opponents. Many viewed this as a direct endorsement of violence, particularly in light of Kirk's murder. Social media erupted with demands for action, including expulsion from Oxford, placement on watchlists, or even imprisonment, with some comparing it to UK cases like Lucy Connolly's sentencing for inflammatory tweets. One user suggested Oxford award Kirk a posthumous honorary doctorate to "drive the point home."

The Oxford Union responded with a statement condemning Abaraonye's comments on Kirk's death as unacceptable, emphasizing the society's commitment to free speech but distancing itself from his views. University officials echoed the sentiment, but no immediate disciplinary steps have been announced. Former Oxford Union presidents, including Lord Moylan, called for Abaraonye's resignation, stating, "I’m an old President of the @OxfordUnion and I think he should resign now." The Spectator published an article criticizing the Union's response as "shameful," while The Jerusalem Post reported on the international fallout, noting interest from U.S. figures like Sen. Marco Rubio.

Defenders argued that firing Abaraonye would contradict free speech principles Kirk himself championed, with one post stating, "Anyone calling for George Abaraonye to be fired doesn't even understand what Charlie Kirk died for... FREE SPEECH IS WHAT CHARLIE STOOD FOR." A clip of Kirk at Oxford advocating for allowing "outrageous things" was shared as ironic context. Others highlighted perceived hypocrisy, noting critics who opposed jailing others for tweets now demand action against Abaraonye.

The story has gone global, with translations in Italian, Spanish, and Hebrew, and ties into broader accusations of left-wing extremism inciting violence. Abaraonye's X account has minimal followers, suggesting limited online presence or recent issues.

It's not the worst thing that was proudly shared on social media since the tragic murder, but considering his position, it is highly concerning and obviously reprehensible.