Kenya, Sept. 10 -- Charlie Kirk's Second Amendment uproar intensified today after the Turning Point USA founder's provocative comments on gun rights sparked widespread outrage, prompting a flood of reactions online with many offering thoughts and prayers to Charlie Kirk amid the backlash.

Speaking at a conservative rally in Phoenix, Kirk argued that unrestricted access to firearms is a "divine mandate" to counter government overreach, a statement that ignited fury among gun control advocates and even some allies, who labelled it reckless amid rising gun violence statistics.

The controversy erupted during Kirk's speech, where he claimed, "The Second Amendment isn't just a right; it's a sacred duty to protect freedom from tyranny, no matter the cost."

Clips of the address, shared widely on social media, drew immediate criticism from figures like Senator Chris Murphy, who called it "dangerous rhetoric fuelling domestic terror."

Supporters, however, rallied behind Kirk, viewing his stance as a bold defence of individual liberty, with hashtags like #StandWithCharlie trending as counter-narratives.

The timing couldn't be worse, following a series of mass shootings in 2025 that have left 142 dead, amplifying calls for stricter regulations and putting Kirk's words under a harsh spotlight.

The uproar reflects deeper divisions in the gun debate, with Kirk's organisation, Turning Point USA, doubling down by releasing a statement defending his views as rooted in constitutional principles.

Critics point to his past comments on arming teachers and his dismissal of background checks as evidence of a pattern, while trending discussions on X highlight personal stories of gun violence victims, adding emotional weight to the backlash.

Kirk, known for his fiery style, has yet to back down, promising a follow-up address to clarify his position. As the Charlie Kirk Second Amendment uproar continues to unfold, the polarising figure faces a critical juncture, with thoughts and prayers to Charlie Kirk pouring in from supporters while opponents demand accountability.

The incident portrays the volatile nature of gun rights discourse, leaving many to wonder if the controversy will shift public or political stances as the nation grapples with balancing freedom and safety in the coming months.

Also, shocking incident unfolded as conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, sending waves of concern across the nation. Reports indicate Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was hit near the neck during a live Q&A session with students, prompting an immediate evacuation of the campus and an outpouring of support online.

The news has left many reeling, with authorities confirming a suspect is in custody as investigations continue. The shooting occurred this afternoon when Kirk was seated on stage as part of his "Prove Me Wrong" tour.

Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating online show him recoiling after a shot rang out, with blood visible as the crowd panicked and fled. University officials promptly secured the campus, and Kirk's security team escorted him out. Initial reports suggest he was hospitalised, though the severity of his injuries remains unclear.

Important personalities, including President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, have called for prayers, with Trump posting on Truth Social, "We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot.

He is truly a remarkable individual. GOD BLESS HIM!" Details are still emerging, with the FBI monitoring the situation and local police working to piece together the motive. Some speculate the attack may tie to Kirk's polarising views on issues like the Second Amendment, though no official cause has been confirmed. The incident has reignited debates about political violence, especially following a year marked by similar events, raising questions about safety at public gatherings.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.