The president-elect of the Oxford Union, George Abaraonye, will face disciplinary proceedings after making 'inappropriate remarks' celebrating the fatal shooting of far-right activist Charlie Kirk. The union announced the decision on social media, alongside a condemnation of racial abuse Abaraonye has received.
Abaraonye, a University of Oxford student elected in June, posted comments in a WhatsApp group including 'Charlie Kirk got shot, let's fucking go' and 'Charlie Kirk got shot loool.' The remarks were revealed by The Telegraph on Thursday.
The Oxford Union stated on Saturday that it had already condemned the remarks, emphasising they were personal views not representing the union. It also strongly condemned racial abuse and threats Abaraonye faced, saying 'No individual should ever be attacked because of the colour of their skin.' The union noted it lacks executive powers to dismiss a president-elect summarily but has forwarded complaints for disciplinary proceedings.
Abaraonye said he 'reacted impulsively' and deleted the comments after news of Kirk's death. He extended condolences but cited Kirk's own rhetoric on school shootings, Gaza, and LGBTQ+ communities as context. The two had debated toxic masculinity at the Oxford Union in May.
Valerie Amos, master of University College, Oxford, said on Friday that no disciplinary action would be taken by the college, as Abaraonye's comments did not contravene its free speech policies.
