The Oxford Union has been plunged into controversy after its president-elect, George Abaraonye, appeared to celebrate the death of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Abaraonye, a third-year Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) student, reportedly made comments that drew widespread outrage, with critics calling his behavior “a disgrace to Oxford” and demanding immediate disciplinary action.
“This cannot continue,” one critic said. “It is a disease that has infected deep and won’t let go easy. Major reform is needed at the Union.”
In response, the Oxford Union issued a strongly worded statement distancing itself from Abaraonye.
“The Oxford Union would like to unequivocally condemn the reported words and sentiments expressed by the President-Elect, George Abaraonye, with regards to the passing of Charlie Kirk,” the statement read. “His reported views do not represent the Oxford Union’s current leadership or committee’s view. The current administration has, under President Moosa Harraj, no association with, and is entirely independent from, Mr. Abaraonye’s administration.”
The Union further reaffirmed its principles, stressing that it “firmly opposes all forms of political violence” while maintaining its commitment to free speech and constructive debate.
The statement concluded with condolences: “We would like to reiterate that our sympathies lie with Charlie Kirk’s family, especially his wife and young children, who are enduring such terrible grief.”
The backlash has prompted calls for stricter accountability and reform within the Oxford Union, as the incident once again reignites debate over the culture and responsibilities of its leadership.