In a shocking turn of events this week, an Oxford University student has drawn international attention for his gloating response to the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk.
George Abaraonye, 20, reportedly posted messages online celebrating Kirk’s death, prompting widespread condemnation and putting his upcoming presidency of the Oxford Union under intense scrutiny.
From ABB Grades to Oxford Union President
Abaraonye, a third-year Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) student, made it to Oxford with ABB A-level grades—below the typical three-A requirement.
He had previously been rejected by at least one less prestigious university.
Despite this, he quickly made his mark at Oxford, being elected president of the famed Oxford Union, a role once held by figures like Boris Johnson and Tony Blair.
Campus Life and Extra-Curricular Achievements
Beyond the Union, Abaraonye has been deeply involved in campus life.
He served as events officer for the University’s Arab Society, founded HipHopSoc, and was vice-president of the African and Caribbean Society.
He was also recognized in student magazines as a “big name on campus” and celebrated for his efforts to make Oxford’s social scene more inclusive for students from diverse backgrounds.
Controversial Social Media Posts
Abaraonye’s online messages sparked outrage.
On WhatsApp, he allegedly wrote: “Charlie Kirk got shot, let’s f***ing go,” accompanied by a praying hands emoji, and on Instagram he reportedly said: “Charlie Kirk got shot loool.”
These comments went viral, leading to calls for him to resign from the Oxford Union before even taking office.
Oxford Union Condemns Remarks
The Oxford Union responded on social media, condemning Abaraonye’s statements.
The Union emphasized that his views do not reflect the current leadership or committee and reaffirmed their commitment to free speech while opposing political violence.
The statement also expressed condolences to Kirk’s family.
A State-School Background and Early Activism
Abaraonye’s rise to prominence comes from a state-school background.
Neither of his parents attended university in Britain, and he qualified for free school meals while attending Chelsea Academy.
From a young age, he demonstrated public speaking skills, including advocating for segregated cycling lanes at a Hammersmith and Fulham Council meeting after a near-fatal cycling accident.
Oxford’s PPE Program and Legacy
PPE at Oxford, often called “the degree that runs Britain,” has produced many prominent figures, including former Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak, David Cameron, and Harold Wilson.
Despite his ABB grades, Abaraonye secured a place on this prestigious program, highlighting Oxford’s focus on diversity and inclusion alongside academic merit.
Apology and Reflection
Following the backlash, Abaraonye issued an apology, telling The Times that his comments were impulsive and not reflective of his values.
He emphasized that no one deserves political violence and extended condolences to Kirk’s family.
He noted that his reaction was shaped by Kirk’s controversial rhetoric, which he described as harmful and dehumanizing.
Balancing Public Controversy and Campus Leadership
Abaraonye’s comments and the ensuing public response highlight the challenges faced by young leaders in the social media era.
As he prepares to assume his role at the Oxford Union, the university community and the public are watching closely to see how he navigates the balance between free expression, personal beliefs, and public accountability.
The Broader Debate on Free Speech
This incident has reignited debates at Oxford and beyond about free speech, political discourse, and the responsibilities of student leaders.
While Abaraonye’s actions have sparked condemnation, they also prompt a larger conversation about how universities manage dissenting views and cultivate a culture of respectful debate.