Australia deputies laud Assange’s freedom but opposition skeptical

Australian lawmakers are rejoicing as Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has finally been released after 14 years of being confined in various forms of captivity. After spending his first night as a free man back at home in Australia on Thursday, Assange’s release has been lauded by the country’s conservative government.

Assange’s journey to freedom has been a long and arduous one. He was first arrested in 2010 in the United Kingdom for publishing classified information on WikiLeaks. In 2012, he sought refuge in the Ecuadorian embassy in London to avoid extradition to Sweden on sexual assault charges, which he denied. However, in 2019, the charges were dropped by Swedish authorities, but Assange remained in the embassy due to the fear of being extradited to the United States. Finally, in January 2021, a UK court ruled against his extradition, citing concerns over his mental health and the conditions he would face in a US prison.

The news of Assange’s release has been met with widespread celebration and relief. Australian lawmakers from both sides of the political spectrum have expressed their joy and support for Assange’s return to his home country. Prime Minister Scott Morrison stated, “I am pleased that Julian Assange has been released and is now back in Australia. This has been a long and difficult journey for him, and I am glad that it has finally come to an end.” Morrison also added that the government will provide Assange with all the necessary support and assistance he needs to readjust to life in Australia.

The opposition leader, Anthony Albanese, also welcomed Assange’s release, saying, “It is a great day for justice and freedom of the press. Julian Assange has been through a lot, and it’s time for him to come back home and be with his loved ones.” He also emphasized the need to protect whistleblowers and journalists who expose the truth and hold governments accountable.

Assange’s release has been hailed as a victory for freedom of speech and the press. His case has raised concerns over the treatment of whistleblowers and the importance of protecting journalists who uncover sensitive information in the public interest. The Australian government has been under pressure to intervene and secure Assange’s release, and his return to Australia is seen as a triumph for the country’s democracy and justice system.

Assange’s legal team has also expressed their joy and gratitude for his release. Lawyer Stella Morris, who is also Assange’s fiancée, said, “We are overjoyed that Julian is finally free after 14 long years. This is a historic moment, and we are grateful to everyone who has supported Julian throughout this ordeal.” Morris also thanked the Australian people and government for their support and urged them to continue fighting for press freedom and the rights of whistleblowers.

Assange’s release has also sparked a debate about the role of the media in a democratic society. Many have criticized the US government’s attempts to prosecute Assange for publishing classified information, arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for press freedom. The Australian government has also been urged to strengthen its protection for journalists and whistleblowers to prevent similar cases from happening in the future.

Assange’s return to Australia also marks a new chapter in his personal life. After spending 14 years away from his home country, he will now have the opportunity to reconnect with his family and friends. His parents, who have tirelessly campaigned for his release, expressed their joy and relief at finally having their son back home. His father, John Shipton, said, “It’s been a long and difficult journey, but we are grateful that Julian is finally home. We look forward to spending time with him and supporting him in his path to recovery.”

Assange’s release is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unwavering support of the Australian people. It is a reminder that even in the face of great adversity, justice and truth will prevail. As the country’s conservative lawmakers continue to celebrate his return, it is a moment for all Australians to come together and celebrate the triumph of democracy and press freedom. Welcome home, Julian Assange.