The Oxford Union Association, a prominent discussion group at Oxford University, has publicly criticized its newly elected leader, Georgia Abarany, for her comments celebrating the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Abarany, who became president in June, reportedly made the statement while chatting on WhatsApp, saying “Charlie Kirk was shot, f–ing go,” along with a prayer emoji. She also mentioned on Instagram that Kirk had been photographed, adding a joking “Looool.”
The leadership at Oxford Union has swiftly distanced itself from Abarany’s remarks. “We want to clearly condemn the reported words and feelings expressed by President-elect George Abarany regarding the passing of Charlie Kirk,” stated the current administration under President Musa Haraj. They emphasized that her opinions do not reflect their views and reaffirmed their commitment to opposing all forms of political violence, expressing sorrow for Kirk’s family.
In light of Abarany’s comments, there have been calls for her removal and expulsion from the university. British commentator David Vance remarked, “Your great words don’t care if George Abarany becomes president,” while former Prime Minister Liz Truss suggested that the university should intervene against her leadership. Adrian Hilton, a lecturer at Buckingham University, agreed, claiming that Abarany dismisses societal responsibilities, indicating that her presence could negatively impact prominent speaker invitations.
In a further fallout, James Price, a former president of the Oxford Union, has resigned from his position within the Union’s Charity Arm, expressing shock over the election’s ruthlessness and the lack of intervention regarding Abarany. Notably, Abarany and Kirk had previously engaged in a tense discussion about “toxic masculinity” during a debate at the Oxford Union in May.
As scrutiny intensifies regarding Abarany’s capability to serve as president, concerns have been raised about her stance on violent retaliation against societal issues, with some proponents asserting that some institutions resist reform. Kirk, recognized for his conservative activism, was fatally shot on Wednesday at a campus event in Orem, Utah, at the age of 31.
