Oxford Union President-Elect Under Fire for Comments on Charlie Kirk Shooting
George Abaraonye, the incoming president of the Oxford Union, is facing criticism after allegedly making celebratory remarks about the fatal shooting of U.S. conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Shortly after news broke of Kirk’s death at a university event in Utah, screenshots surfaced of messages reportedly posted by Abaraonye in a WhatsApp group and on Instagram, including one that read: “Charlie Kirk got shot loool” and another that said, “let’s f------ go.”
The Oxford Union responded swiftly, stating it “unequivocally condemns the reported words and sentiments expressed” and emphasized that Abaraonye’s comments “do not represent” the views of its current leadership. It also reiterated its opposition to political violence and expressed condolences to Kirk’s family, including his wife and young children. The union clarified that the current president, Moosa Harraj, has “no association” with Abaraonye’s administration.
Abaraonye, who debated Kirk at the Union in May over masculinity, said he had “reacted impulsively” and deleted the posts soon after. He added that “nobody deserves to be the victim of political violence” and offered his condolences to Kirk’s loved ones. Still, he justified his initial reaction by referencing Kirk’s own record: “My reaction was shaped by the context of Mr Kirk’s own rhetoric – words that often dismissed or mocked the suffering of others.”
Kirk, known for his strong pro-Trump stance and leadership of the MAGA youth movement, was shot while taking audience questions at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. He had previously described deaths that occur due to gun violence as an acceptable cost for gun rights and made controversial comments about Gaza and LGBTQ communities. Former President Donald Trump called Kirk a “martyr for truth and freedom” and blamed the “radical Left” for fueling hatred that leads to violence.
Oxford University, which is separate from the Union, also condemned the remarks. “We deplore comments appearing to endorse violence – they are unacceptable and entirely contrary to the values of our community,” a university spokesperson said. Whether Abaraonye will face further consequences remains unclear.
