Palestine Action activists to appeal terror sentencing
Palestine Action activists to appeal terror sentencing Submitted by Katherine Hearst on Thu, 09/03/2026 - 15:29 The four activists, the first direct action protesters to be sentenced as terrorists, argue that their sentences are 'manifestly excessive' Sukaina Rajwani, defendant Fatema Rajwani's mother, stands with Emma Kamio, Leona 'Ellie' Kamio's mother, 3 September 2026 (Katherine Hearst/MEE)…
Four activists from Palestine Action, the first direct action protesters to be sentenced as terrorists, announced plans to appeal their UK court sentences. The group, comprising Charlotte 'Lottie' Head, Fatema Rajwani, Leona 'Ellie' Kamio, and Samuel Corner, were convicted in May for criminal damage charges after smashing up Israeli weapons in an Elbit Systems factory near Bristol in August 2024.
The presiding judge, Justice Johnson, determined in June that the group's actions carried a terrorist connection, leading to sentences ranging from four to eight years. This marked the first time direct action protesters convicted of criminal charges were sentenced as terrorists. During the trial, the activists were barred from discussing their motivations and the potential terrorist designation.
Simon Natas, representing the defendants, confirmed their intention to appeal the sentences, arguing that they are manifestly excessive. The activists' plea centers on Johnson's wrongful application of the terrorist connection to their case and contends that the decision contravenes Article 7 and 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
These rights protect against heavier penalties than those applicable at the time of the criminal offense and guarantee a fair trial.
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