In an unexpected turn of events, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been released from Belmarsh maximum security prison in London, after spending a staggering 1901 days behind bars. His freedom is a testament to the unwavering support of grassroots organisers, human rights activists, and independent media outlets, who fought tirelessly for his release.
Assange’s journey began with WikiLeaks’ groundbreaking exposés of government corruption and human rights abuses, which held those in power accountable for their actions. In 2010, WikiLeaks released classified US military documents revealing war crimes in Afghanistan and Iraq, including the infamous “Collateral Murder” video. This led to a US grand jury indicting Assange on espionage charges.
In 2012, Assange sought asylum in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, fearing extradition to the US. He was granted asylum, but the UK refused to recognise it, leaving him trapped in the embassy for seven years.
In April 2019, Assange’s asylum was revoked, and he was arrested by UK police. He was sentenced to 50 weeks in prison for skipping bail and faced extradition to the US.
Shockingly, no mainstream media house or journalist fought for Assange’s freedom. Instead, many media outlets demonized him, parroting government narratives. This betrayal is a stark reminder that most journalists and media houses are captured by power and fail to uphold the principles of free speech and press freedom.
In contrast, grassroots organisers, human rights activists, and independent media outlets tirelessly campaigned for Assange’s release. Their unwavering dedication exposed the hypocrisy of governments and mainstream media, ultimately leading to Assange’s freedom.
The people’s victory in securing Assange’s release is a testament to the power of collective action and the importance of holding those in power accountable. It also highlights the need for independent media and journalists who courageously speak truth to power, unlike the captured mainstream media.
Assange’s release marks a new chapter in the fight for truth and accountability. His courage and dedication to exposing the truth have inspired countless individuals around the world, and his freedom is a reminder that the people’s voices can make a difference.
As Assange walks free, he will soon be reunited with his wife Stella Assange and their children, who have only known their father from behind bars. This reunion will be a poignant moment, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, free from the shackles of oppression.
In a statement, WikiLeaks expressed gratitude to all who fought for Assange’s freedom, saying, “Julian’s freedom is our freedom.”
Assange’s release is a triumph of the human spirit, and a reminder that the people’s voices can make a difference in the face of oppression.
Photography :Jack Taylor – Getty Images
