WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange believes his organization is more accountable than democratically elected governments as its very existence depends on the public for financial support.
“We are directly supported on a week-to-week basis by you. You vote with your wallets every week if you believe that our work is worthwhile or not,” Assange told attendees of a debate organized by the New Statesman and Frontline Club.
“If you believe we have erred, you do not support us. If you believe we need to be protected in our work, you keep us strong.”
Assange claimed that such dynamic feedback remains considerably “more responsive” compared to a government elected only after “sourcing money” from big business every four years.
Unsurprisingly, Assange also took the opportunity to explain why whistle-blowing was essential in the context of democracy, emphasizing “the only way we can know whether information is legitimately kept secret is when it is revealed.”
However, political commentator Douglas Murray expressed skepticism over Assange’s claims.
“What gives you the right to decide what should be known or not? Governments are elected. You, Mr Assange are not.”
[Via Guardian UK]
