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Irish hip-hop collective Kneecap expressed regret on Tuesday to the families of two British Members of Parliament (MPs) who were killed in recent years, following the release of video footage showing one of its members appearing to encourage violence against local MPs during a live performance in 2023.
The group’s statement came amidst backlash from lawmakers and friends of the deceased MPs, David Amess and Jo Cox, and increased scrutiny after a controversial performance at the Coachella music festival earlier this month.
Kneecap extended its apologies to the Amess family, whose member was fatally stabbed in 2021, and the family of Jo Cox, who was tragically shot and stabbed in 2016. The group stated, “To the Amess and Cox families, we send our heartfelt apologies; we never intended to cause you hurt.”
In the contentious video from a concert in London, a group member allegedly stated, “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.” The footage resurfaced in the wake of Amess’s murder, which occurred during a meeting with constituents in Essex, England, in October 2021.
Yvette Cooper, the UK’s Interior Minister, remarked that the matter is under police investigation as the comments made were deemed dangerous, especially in a climate where political violence has seen two MPs murdered in recent years.
The group’s apology was part of a wider message condemning what they described as a “smear campaign” against them. They accused establishment figures of exploiting their past comments out of context to create a narrative of moral outrage. They did not provide specific details on how the footage was manipulated.
Multiple British news organizations reported that a spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed the apology as “half-hearted.” Brendan Cox, widower of Jo Cox, expressed skepticism regarding the authenticity of Kneecap’s apology, indicating disappointment over their claims of being unfairly targeted.
Kate Amess, daughter of the late David Amess, characterized the video as “heartbreaking” and indicated a willingness to meet with the group to discuss the implications of their statements.
Controversy Following Coachella Performance
Kneecap faced prior controversy due to its performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California, where messages promoting pro-Palestinian sentiments concluded with a provocative statement: “F–k Israel. Free Palestine.” This incited outrage from various observers, including talk show host Sharon Osbourne, who criticized the festival for compromising its moral integrity and urged for the group’s U.S. work visa to be revoked.
As a result of the negative attention, booking agency Independent Artist Group reportedly severed ties with Kneecap, and their appearance at a forthcoming German festival was canceled.
In response to the backlash, Kneecap issued a statement declaring a commitment solely to the Palestinian cause, highlighting the plight of those affected by the conflict. They insisted that their focus is on humanitarian issues, emphasizing the casualties of the ongoing violence.
However, a separate video surfaced showing a band member appearing to praise both Hamas and Hezbollah, both of which are recognized as terrorist organizations by the UK government. Kneecap clarified their stance, asserting, “We do not, and have never, supported Hamas or Hezbollah,” while condemning all attacks directed at civilians.
Future Performances and Ongoing Investigations
Kneecap consists of members Liam Óg Ó Hannaidh, Naoise Ó Cairealláin, and JJ Ó Dochartaigh, who perform under stage names. Their music often advocates for Irish identity and the republican cause of unifying Northern Ireland with the Republic of Ireland. The group’s name references a punishment historically inflicted by paramilitary groups during the Northern Ireland conflict.
Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch:
Good.
Kneecap’s glorification of terrorism and anti-British hatred has no place in our society.
Now footage shows one of them saying: “The only good Tory is a dead Tory. Kill your local MP.”
After the murder of Sir David Amess, this demands prosecution. https://t.co/hfOxFLvQqS
As Kneecap continues to rise in the music scene, they are also set to appear at the Glastonbury Festival in June, which has sparked discussions in the House of Commons. Security Minister Dan Jarvis emphasized that while it’s ultimately the festival organizers’ decision, the government encourages careful consideration regarding who is invited to perform.
This month’s events are not Kneecap’s first brush with controversy. They previously won a case against the former Conservative government, which attempted to revoke a grant for the arts, approximately worth $26,000 CAD. The group pledged to donate proceeds to charities benefiting at-risk youth.
As they prepare for upcoming performances, including a North American tour with sold-out shows in Canada, the political ramifications of their actions continue to unfold, drawing attention from both supporters and critics alike.
Source
www.cbc.ca