RIP Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran
These men made a mistake. Many people make mistakes. In fact, I challenge you to name someone who is faultless.
They did not deserve to die for a mistake they made 10 years ago. Much less murdered so disgustingly by 12 men with guns whilst strapped to a cross.
They were let down by a corrupt Indonesian legal system, the Australia media, Australian Federal Police and the Australian Government.
They provided much-needed guidance and rehabilitation for their fellow prison inmates. They achieved academic and creative goals. They brought attention to Indonesian injustice and inequality, not just to themselves and other internationals, but Indonesian nationals as well. They will be remembered for their successes and bravery, rather than their error.
But please do not forget the other six other men who also lost their lives and the single woman who was spared. The four Nigerian men, one Indonesian and one Brazilian (who also was diagnosed with bipolar and schizophrenia, and didn’t understand what was happening).
The eight of them refused to wear blindfolds, instead choosing to look their murderers in the eye, and sung Amazing Grace together.
The death penalty is wrong.
