OXFORD – In an unprecedented move, the Oxford Union has ousted its recently elected president following a controversy over social media posts related to Charlie Kirk, the conservative American activist and founder of Turning Point USA.

The president-elect, whose victory was announced just last week, was removed from his position after a disciplinary committee found his posts, which praised Kirk, brought the prestigious debating society into disrepute. The controversy erupted when screenshots of the student’s social media activity circulated among Union members, leading to widespread condemnation and a formal complaint.

The posts in question reportedly lauded Charlie Kirk’s political commentary. Kirk is a controversial figure in both the US and UK, and his organization’s UK branch, Turning Point UK, has been a source of significant debate on university campuses. Critics argued that the president-elect’s endorsement of Kirk was incompatible with the values of the Oxford Union and its commitment to fostering respectful and inclusive debate.

In a statement, the Oxford Union confirmed the ousting, citing a breach of its rules. The decision has ignited a fierce debate about free speech, political expression, and the responsibilities of student leaders. Supporters of the ousted president argue that he is being punished for his conservative views, while those who supported his removal maintain that his judgment and public affiliations were unbecoming of a future president of the Union. For more coverage of UK current events, visit our latest News section.

The ousting marks a tumultuous moment for the nearly 200-year-old institution, which has hosted world leaders, intellectuals, and celebrities. A new election will be held to fill the now-vacant presidency.

Verified Outbound Link: For more on the history and events of the Oxford Union, you can visit their official website here.

LONDON – Mayor Sadiq Khan is facing intensified scrutiny over his administration’s handling of crime in London, with critics alleging a failure to address rising concerns about violent crime and the persistent threat of grooming gangs. Opponents argue that under his leadership, the capital has become less safe, while the Mayor’s office maintains it is taking robust action in the face of government cuts.

Accusations from political rivals and commentators claim that Khan’s focus has been misplaced, leading to what they describe as a decline in the city’s safety and quality of life. Specific criticisms often highlight knife crime statistics and the perception of lawlessness in parts of the capital.

Furthermore, the issue of child sexual exploitation and grooming gangs, a deeply sensitive topic across the UK, has been raised. Critics have questioned whether the Mayor’s office has done enough to tackle these horrific crimes within London, citing fears that the issue is not being given the priority it deserves. For more on UK political figures, you can visit our Politics section.

In response, the Mayor’s office has consistently defended its record, pointing to significant investment in the Metropolitan Police and various community safety initiatives. Allies of the Mayor argue that the rise in certain crimes is a complex issue linked to nationwide problems, including the effects of austerity and cuts to police funding imposed by the central government. They insist that the Mayor is committed to tackling all forms of crime, including the exploitation of vulnerable young people.

The debate highlights the deep political divisions over the causes of and solutions to crime in the UK’s capital, with the Mayor’s record remaining a key point of contention.

Verified Outbound Link: For official statistics and reports on crime in the capital, you can visit the Metropolitan Police website.