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In reply to the discussion: Assange to run for Australian senate: WikiLeaks (AFP) [View all]struggle4progress
(118,281 posts)4 February, 2013
Leanne Mezrani
... Orr claimed Assanges first hurdle is being eligible to stand, which, under the Commonwealth Electoral Act, requires candidates to be registered to vote. It is public knowledge that <Assange> is not on the electoral roll, said Orr.
Despite WikiLeaks announcement that Assange will register as an overseas voter, Orr pointed out that this option is only available to citizens who have been living abroad for less than three years. Lawyers Weekly understands that Assange has not returned to Australia in nearly six years ...
Assanges decision to seek political asylum from the Ecuadorian government could demonstrate an allegiance to a foreign power, explained Orr ...
A final hurdle, should he overcome the others and win a Senate seat, is his inability to be sworn in. WikiLeaks has claimed that if Assange is unable to take his place in the Senate it would be filled by a running mate, but Orr pointed out that Assange cant resign a seat he hasnt officially taken ...
http://www.lawyersweekly.com.au/news/legal-hurdles-ahead-for-assange-political-bid