Charlie Kirk Killing Used to Mobilise UK’s Largest Far-Right Rally in Decades

Published: 13 September 2025 | The English Chronicle Online

The recent killing of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk has been cited by far-right activist Tommy Robinson as a rallying point ahead of what is expected to be one of the largest far-right demonstrations in the UK in decades. The London-based event will feature speakers from the UK, the United States, and Europe, drawing considerable attention from both supporters and critics.

Among the high-profile names scheduled to appear is Steve Bannon, former chief strategist to Donald Trump. The rally is anticipated to attract tens of thousands of attendees and has been heavily promoted by Robinson as a monetised event. Other speakers include Ant Middleton, a former UK special forces soldier known for embracing far-right rhetoric, as well as representatives from Germany’s far-right AfD party and a Polish MEP.

American commentators such as Joey Mannarino, known for his controversial right-wing views, are also expected to attend. However, doubts remain over whether Canadian psychology professor and public figure Jordan Peterson will appear, despite being listed on the lineup. His potential involvement raises questions about his continued affiliation with the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (ARC), a London-based annual gathering of conservative figures.

Authorities have imposed a pause on new leave bookings for police, given the history of violence at previous Robinson events. In a recent video message referencing Kirk’s death, Robinson expressed anger, referring to those he holds responsible for the shooting. Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old from Utah, was later arrested in connection with the fatal attack.

Estimates from the anti-extremism group Hope Not Hate suggest the rally could draw over 40,000 participants. In response, the group Stand Up to Racism has organised a counter-demonstration, including a march led by Women Against the Far Right and supported by MPs Zarah Sultana and Diane Abbott. Abbott criticised far-right movements as a growing threat targeting various minority and activist groups.

Nick Lowles of Hope Not Hate described the upcoming rally as potentially significant, questioning its political implications and noting Robinson’s recent alignment with Advance UK, a party formed by former Reform UK figures. He also highlighted the commercial aspects of the rally, including fundraising efforts aiming for approximately £300,000, which may strengthen Robinson’s position within the far-right movement.

Police in London have been coordinating with organisers to ensure public safety. The Metropolitan Police stressed that, while they do not grant formal permission for protests, advance notice is required to facilitate appropriate planning. Officers will be deployed in significant numbers, and the force has reassured Londoners, including Muslim communities, that they should feel safe attending public spaces despite concerns arising from previous events.

The rally, branded as a “free speech festival,” will see participants march from Waterloo to the southern end of Whitehall, while the Stand Up to Racism counter-protest will proceed from Russell Square to the northern end of Whitehall. Multiple football fixtures and other events on the same day will also form part of the policing operation.