Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has described the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk as “a brave patriot” following his assassination at a university speaking engagement in Utah on Wednesday.
Mr Kirk, 31, who founded Turning Point USA, was fatally shot while addressing a crowd at Utah Valley University.
Mrs Braverman emphasised that Mr Kirk had been “simply expressing his political views” when he was killed, questioning what this meant for the state of Western democracy.
Speaking to GB News, she said: “It’s heartbreaking. This is a very human tragedy. He was a young man with a young family, and my thoughts go out to them. They must be in unspeakable pain right now.
“Charlie Kirk was simply expressing his political views, and for that, he lost his life. What does that say about the state of American society, British society, Western society?
“When violence comes to dominate our political discourse, we cannot go on like this. I hope this is a moment for everyone to take stock and reflect on the direction our society is moving.
“I’ve been on the receiving end of some horrible abuse myself. Am I more worried about the safety of public figures?
“Of course. But in a free society, what can we do? The truth is, Charlie was a brave patriot.
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“He put his head above the parapet, he exposed himself, he encouraged free debate and an exchange of ideas.
“Many of us in public life do the same. And we’ve seen in this country the tragic murders of politicians simply because of their political views, left and right.
“It is becoming a more fraught environment to speak, but we mustn’t give in.
“These are bullying tactics. They are scare tactics. And those of us who want to speak the truth, who want to speak for the voiceless and for love of our country, must continue to do so.”
The shooting occurred during an outdoor question-and-answer session on the campus in Orem, Utah.
Whilst initial reports suggested someone had been detained, both university officials and the FBI Director later confirmed no suspect remained in custody.
The investigation into Mr Kirk’s murder continues with no arrests made so far.
US President Donald Trump responded emotionally to news of the assassination, describing Kirk as “a very, very good friend” and “a tremendous person”.
On social media, the President wrote that Kirk was “loved and admired by ALL, especially me”.
Mr Kirk leaves behind his wife Erika Frantzve, whom he wed in 2021, and their two young children.
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