04.54 BSTWikiLeaks founder endorses Anthony Albanese for PMJulian Assange has endorsed Anthony Albanese, praising the PM’s efforts to release him from jail.Assange was detained for more than five years in London, charged with espionage and computer hacking, for publishing classified US military documents on the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.Assange says Anthony Albanese did more to secure his freedom than anybody else. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty ImagesIn a statement, he said Albanese “has the backbone to stand up for Australians on other tough issues”.
The truth is, in what became an impressive field of advocates, Albo did more to secure my freedom than any other politician or public figure, even more than the late Pope, whose support was both moving and significant.
Against all expectations for an Australian politician, once elected, he kept his word.
Albanese lobbied former US president Joe Biden at several meetings, pushing for Assange’s release.Assange wrote:
Albo hasn’t just stood up to the US to end the political imprisonment of an Australian – he’s also intervened for other Australians detained in difficult circumstances, including in China. This government has proven itself unusually capable of rescuing Australians caught up in sensitive political situations.
Does this mean Albo will put Australian interests first and skillfully navigate tensions between the US, EU, and China? I can’t say for sure. But I do know this: He can. Albo did right by me ... You don’t need to be a bully to have a backbone.
The WikiLeaks founder was released, and returned to Australia after agreeing to a plea deal in June.ShareUpdated at 05.37 BST
Israeli forces killing Palestinians collecting food in Gaza do sex
‘I wish I could go back’ Starving girl’s message from Gaza do sex
