George Abaraonye expressed approval regarding the assassination of the conservative activist he once debated.
George Abaraonye, the Oxford Union’s president-elect, is facing disciplinary proceedings and a potential vote of no confidence following his contentious remarks regarding the murder of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The renowned debating society confirmed the receipt of formal complaints against Abaraonye, stating these would be “addressed with the utmost seriousness” via disciplinary channels. Although the Union cannot summarily remove a president-elect, its bylaws allow for instant dismissal if significant misconduct is established.
Over 200 life members of the Union—alumni who have maintained their membership—have indicated their support for a no-confidence motion, surpassing the 150-signature requirement to initiate such proceedings, as reported by The Telegraph.
Abaraonye, who debated Kirk at the Union in May, disseminated messages of jubilation on WhatsApp and Instagram subsequent to the activist being fatally shot on Wednesday during a university event in Utah. One message read: “CHARLIE KIRK GOT SHOT LET’S F****** GO,” while another stated: “Charlie Kirk got shot loool.”
He later expunged the remarks, claiming they were made before Kirk’s death was verified, and tendered a qualified apology. He ascribed his “impulsive” reaction to Kirk’s “horrific and dehumanising statements” on gun rights, Gaza, and LGBTQ issues.
The Union’s leadership denounced Abaraonye’s pronouncements as “inappropriate, insensitive and unacceptable,” asserting that “free speech cannot and will not come at the expense of violence, intimidation, or hate.”
Simultaneously, the Union also condemned the threats Abaraonye has reportedly encountered since his comments were publicized. It affirmed: “No individual should ever be attacked because of the color of their skin or the community they come from.”
Pursuant to Union bylaws, a no-confidence motion cannot be tabled until the new term commences on October 12. For the motion to be successful, it mandates the collection of 150 signatures within 48 hours, followed by a debate and vote open to all student and life members.
Kirk, 31, the founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while delivering a speech at Utah Valley University in an event many have characterized as a politically motivated assassination. US authorities have formally charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder.