So, Bradley Manning must serve 35 years in jail, while the blatant murderers he exposed have not been punished at all. That makes sense. If you're in USA.
American Civil Liberties Union director Ben Wizner nails it with this statement:
"When a soldier who shared information with the press and public is punished far more harshly than others who tortured prisoners and killed civilians, something is seriously wrong with our justice system. A legal system that doesn't distinguish between leaks to the press in the public interest and treason against the nation will not only produce unjust results, but will deprive the public of critical information that is necessary for democratic accountability. This is a sad day for Bradley Manning, but it's also a sad day for all Americans who depend on brave whistleblowers and a free press for a fully informed public debate."
4 June 2013
My support of Bradley Manning is well known and long stated.
His trial starts today - US time - and there is little doubt he will be sent to jail for at least twenty years. The irony is that he is actually the greatest American hero since WWII.
Here is a superb piece on the whole issue, courtesy of the The Independent.
Copyright © Alan Charman