The newly elected president of the Oxford Union, George Abaraonye, is facing criticism for allegedly downplaying the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk. Reports from the Daily Mail suggest that Abaraonye made insensitive remarks about Kirk’s death shortly after he was shot during a speech on mass shootings at a university in Utah. Social media posts attributed to Abaraonye have circulated widely, coinciding with the emergence of claims portraying Charlie Kirk as a martyr of gun violence.
One message, reportedly shared via WhatsApp, read: “Charlie Kirk got shot, let’s go.” Another message, supposedly from Abaraonye’s Instagram account, stated: “Charlie Kirk got shot loool,” as per reports from the Express. Abaraonye has since set his Instagram profile to private, blocking access to his posts. The ownership of the WhatsApp account linked to the messages remains unconfirmed.
Abaraonye, elected in June, had a previous confrontation with the conservative activist at a university event in May, where they debated “toxic masculinity.” Abaraonye also held the position of vice-president at the Oxford African and Caribbean Society, engaging in discussions on racial diversity within the university.
Responding to backlash over the alleged comments, Abaraonye explained that his remarks were made in a moment of shock and did not align with his values. He emphasized that no one should be subjected to political violence and extended condolences to Kirk’s family. Abaraonye pointed out discrepancies in media coverage, stressing that his words were retracted promptly and should not be misconstrued as inciting violence.
Charlie Kirk was shot in the neck during a presentation on mass shootings at a college campus in Utah and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Authorities are actively searching for the gunman, described as a young student, with CCTV footage obtained for identification purposes. The Oxford Union has disapproved of Abaraonye’s remarks, asserting its stance against political violence and commitment to free speech.
In a statement, the Oxford Union distanced itself from Abaraonye’s reported views, expressing condolences to Charlie Kirk’s family. The current administration, led by president Moosa Harraj, emphasized its independence from Abaraonye’s administration. The society reiterated its sympathy for Kirk’s family, particularly his wife and children, who are enduring a profound loss.
