Oxford Union President-Elect Under Fire Over Comments on Charlie Kirk Shooting
George Abaraonye, the incoming Oxford Union chairman, is bogged in contestation after allegations surfaced that he celebrated the fatal firing of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The dispatches, which were shared via WhatsApp and Instagram, quickly spread online, sparking wide review from scholars and university officers likewise.
Who is George Abaraonye?
Abaraonye, a PPE student at the University of Oxford, will formally assume the role of Oxford Union president in Hilary Term 2026.
Raised in a working-class family, he attended a state academy and relied on the ree academy refectory. Neither parent pursued advanced education in the UK.
During his campaign, Abaraonye emphasised inclusivity and accessibility. In interviews with Cherwell, Oxford’s student newspaper, he stated he wanted the Union to “feel open to those who might previously have felt excluded,” pledging “presence, purpose, and a plan” if elected.
He has previously served as the Union’s Director of Press and has been active in various societies, including Hip-Hop Soc and cultural student groups.
Following his election, he highlighted the need to diversify the Union’s image, aiming for debates that represent broader backgrounds and perspectives.
The Charlie Kirk Shooting
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and a polarising American commentator, was shot at Utah Valley University in September 2025.
The attack is under investigation as politically motivated. Kirk, known for his contentious positions on LGBTQ rights, gun control, and race, suffered from his injuries.
In the UK, his death attracted attention because he’d appeared at the Oxford Union before in 2025, engaging in debates on virility and free speech.
The Alleged Comments
Reports claim that Abaraonye shared celebratory messages immediately following news of Kirk’s shooting. Screenshots reportedly show phrases such as:
“Charlie Kirk got shot, let’s fucking go.” “Charlie Kirk got shot loool”
Though some posts were later deleted, screenshots circulated widely online, raising concerns about the suitability of the future Oxford Union president’s conduct.
Abaraonye Responds
Abaraonye issued a statement admitting he “reacted impulsively” to the news.
He added: “Nobody deserves to be the victim of political violence. Nobody should be harmed or killed for the views they hold… I extend my condolences to his family and loved ones.”
He explained that his reaction stemmed from frustration over Kirk’s controversial record but stressed that disagreement does not justify violence.
Official Reactions
The Oxford Union condemned the remarks. A statement posted on X read: “The Oxford Union would like to unequivocally condemn the reported words and sentiments expressed by its president-elect, George Abaraonye, about the passing of Charlie Kirk.
— Oxford Union (@OxfordUnion) September 11, 2025
His reported views do not represent the Oxford Union’s current leadership or the committee’s view.”
The University of Oxford, while noting that the Union operates singly, also counted in. Any commentary appearing to promote violence was labelled “ inferior ” and inconsistent with the university’s values.
The incident has sparked debate over the liabilities of pupil leaders in the UK, particularly those representing major institutions like the Oxford Union.
