Oxford University Union condemns incoming president's comments after Kirk shooting
Oxford student faces backlash over controversial messages following Charlie Kirk’s death.
The Oxford Union has "unequivocally" condemned comments reportedly made by its incoming president following the fatal shooting of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Mr Kirk, 31, was shot and killed on Wednesday during a public event at Utah Valley University in what US authorities have described as a political assassination. A father of two, Kirk was the co-founder and CEO of the right-wing youth group Turning Point USA, and a close ally of Donald Trump.
The comments have sparked outrage, with the Oxford Union releasing a statement on Thursday strongly distancing itself from George Abaraonye's remarks.
“The Oxford Union would like to unequivocally condemn the reported words and sentiments expressed by its President-Elect, George Abaraonye, with regards to the passing of Charlie Kirk,” the society said.
“His reported views do not represent the Oxford Union’s current leadership or committee’s view. We firmly oppose all forms of political violence.”
The Union also extended its condolences to Mr Kirk’s family, including his wife and young children, “who are enduring such terrible grief.”
Mr Abaraonye and Mr Kirk had previously met during a debate hosted by the Union in May on the topic of "toxic masculinity." Though the pair disagreed throughout the event, their exchange remained civil. During the debate, Kirk argued that men in the US had been “infantilised” and “hyper-feminised” through the education system and culture, a view Abaraonye challenged.
News of Kirk’s death has prompted tributes from around the world. Former US President Donald Trump called him a “martyr for truth and freedom”, while UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other political leaders also offered condolences.
A vigil organised by Turning Point UK is due to take place in Whitehall on Friday evening in memory of Charlie Kirk.
The Oxford Union, founded in 1823, describes itself as the world’s most prestigious debating society and has hosted figures from Malcolm X to world leaders and celebrities.