Julian Assange’s supporters are holding a vigil in Brisbane ahead of a British court’s decision on whether to deport him to Sweden over sex allegations.
Supporters of the WikiLeaks website founder believe the allegations are a ploy to have him extradited to Stockholm and then deported to the US over WikiLeaks’ release of US diplomatic cables. The UK Supreme Court is expected to hand down its decision on whether a public prosecutor has a right to issue a European Arrest Warrant around 6.15pm (AEST) today. This will have implications on whether Assange can be deported to Stockholm.
Supporters have rallied across Australia, including in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Newcastle, Townsville and Canberra.
Assange’s mother Christine Assange is in London awaiting the court’s verdict.
Anti-war activist and vigil organiser Ciaron O’Reilly told AAP the 40-year-old Australian WikiLeaks chief is resolute. “He is up against the American empire,” Mr O’Reilly said.”They have set out to destroy him but he is very resolute and believes in what he is doing.” Brisbane resident Greg Rolles, 30, says he is joining the vigil because he believes Assange stands for the truth.
“He has tried to shine a light on governments that illegally start wars,” Mr Rolles said.
