The Victorian Greens have warned that the Allan Labor Government should cancel Herzog’s visit to Melbourne. It comes after the Supreme Court granted extraordinary powers to Victoria Police ahead of Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit. The Greens say the visit will only heighten tensions and make everyone less safe.
Just two days after scenes of violence and police brutality on peaceful protesters in Sydney, Victoria police have been granted additional powers ahead of his visit tomorrow.
Greens MPs wrote to Premier Jacinta Allan yesterday calling for Herzog’s visit to be cancelled, citing the United Nations Commission of Inquiry finding that Herzog has incited genocide. The letter warns that his presence in Victoria will escalate community distress and increase the risk of police violence.
Victorian Greens Spokesperson for Justice, Katherine Copsey:
“After what we saw in Sydney, people are rightly concerned about police violence. If the Premier was serious about keeping the community safe, she would cancel Herzog’s visit.
Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell:
“The Premier could cancel Herzog’s visit, it’s irresponsible and unethical to roll out the welcome mat to someone who has been found to incite genocide.”