Authorities in Brisbane are taking a firm stance regarding a planned pro-Palestine march expected to draw up to 10,000 participants on March 3, 2024. Following a ruling from Chief Magistrate Janelle Brassington, the police have stated they will arrest or charge demonstrators if they unlawfully block traffic on the city’s Story Bridge.
During a court session, Magistrate Brassington determined that the march, while not unlawful, would be classified as an unauthorised protest. In her ruling, she expressed concern about the potential risks to public safety along the proposed route. “I’m satisfied [the Queensland Police Service] has established there is a real and significant risk to persons in this case,” she stated.
The decision has prompted rally organiser Remah Naji to affirm plans for a peaceful assembly, despite the legal challenges. Following the court ruling, Naji addressed supporters outside the courthouse, stating, “The plan is still to go ahead with a peaceful assembly… we are considering our options at this stage.”
Police Prepared for Enforcement Actions
In light of the court’s decision, Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman announced that police would maintain a significant presence to manage the situation. He stressed the importance of ensuring public safety and protecting access for emergency vehicles. “We have to make it quite clear that anyone participating in a protest which is not authorised faces the prospect of enforcement action,” he warned.
Wildman encouraged the rally organisers from Justice for Palestine to maintain communication with the police’s major events unit leading up to the protest. This nationwide event has been described as the largest pro-Palestine demonstration in Australia’s history, with organisers still contemplating a court appeal to secure official authorisation.
Brisbane’s Story Bridge serves as a critical artery for traffic, and police officials have indicated that they will act decisively to prevent any disruptions. “There are a range of offences that are open to investigators to utilise, and we will have a significant policing presence this weekend to manage whatever response the protest organisers wish to take,” Wildman added.
As the date approaches, tensions surrounding the march continue to heighten, with both police and protesters preparing for what could become a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding Palestine and its advocacy in Australia.
