Anti-vaccine activist tells judge he’s transgender and should be addressed as ‘Kunta Kinte’

Kunta Kinte is a fictional character from a 1976 novel, Roots by American author, Alex Haley and has featured in two TV adaptations of the novel

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An anti-vaccine activist previously charged under the name Antonio Mureddu has told a judge that he is now transgender and should be addressed as ‘Kunta Kinte’, the name of a fictional slave from the best-selling novel, ‘Roots’.

At Ennis District Court, the accused (47) told Judge Alec Gabbett “I am not Mr Mureddu judge.” He said: “I am a LGBT member. I am transgender also.”

The accused has appeared a number of times in person and via video-link in court while on remand in custody and continues to deny that he is Mr Mureddu. Judge Gabbett said that this is the first time that Mr Mureddu has introduced the transgender issue.

The judge said: “I have carefully considered the documentation that you have sent me and I have carefully considered the paperwork that I have been given by the Gardai – I am satisfied that you are Mr Moreddu.” He added: “This has to be moved on to be dealt with in the circuit court. I am noting your points that you don’t recognise the court and I am noting you are effectively telling the court that you are not Mr Moreddu.”

Appearing in court from prison via a video-link Mr Mureddu replied: “I am not Mr Mureddu judge.” In reply, Judge Gabbett said: “I know – you keep saying that – I have considered your paperwork and as far I am concerned you are Mr Moreddu and you have charges to answer in the circuit court.”

Kunta Kinte is a fictional character from a 1976 novel, Roots by American author, Alex Haley and has featured in two TV adaptations of the novel. In reply, Judge Gabbett said: “I am going to continue calling you ‘Sir’ for the time being.”

Mr Mureddu is charged with an alleged assault of Garda James Hanley with intent to resist or prevent the lawful apprehension or detention of himself for an alleged offence, dangerous driving at Knockanean outside Ennis on August 10th 2021.

State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey told the court that the trial is listed for July 9th at Ennis Circuit Court and that two dangerous driving charges are to be added to the circuit court indictment at a later date. Mr Mureddu has been on remand in custody since March 13th.