UPDATE: Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has sharply criticized plans for a significant march across the Story Bridge, mirroring last weekend’s massive protest on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Organizers from Justice for Palestine Magan-djin have applied for permission to rally on August 24, starting at 1 PM from Kangaroo Point to Fortitude Valley, in what they describe as a “nationwide march for Palestine.”
The protest aims to highlight the “urgency of the situation in Gaza,” following an estimated 90,000 participants in Sydney last weekend—the number reaching as high as 300,000 according to organizers. Crisafulli expressed concerns about the impact of such protests, stating, “Shutting down a city is no way to endear Queenslanders to your cause.”
Queensland Police are currently evaluating the application for the march, emphasizing their commitment to the right to peaceful assembly as mandated by the Human Rights Act and the Peaceful Assembly Act. A spokesperson noted, “The QPS recognizes that every person has the right to peacefully assemble.”
Crisafulli’s remarks come in the wake of his previous criticism of the Brisbane Lord Mayor’s decision not to light the Story Bridge in the colors of the Palestinian flag, a move perceived as a denial of solidarity to a grieving community.
The situation remains fluid as police assess potential risks to community safety. The outcome of this evaluation will determine whether the march proceeds as planned, potentially causing significant disruptions in the area.
Residents and supporters are urged to stay informed as developments unfold, with substantial implications for community dynamics and local governance. The debate surrounding the protest speaks to broader issues of social justice and public expression in Queensland.
As the situation progresses, all eyes will be on the response from local authorities and the community’s reaction to the planned protest. Stay tuned for further updates.
