Julian Assange has been awarded the “keys” to Mexico City in recognition of his dedication to uncovering the truth. Gabriel Shipton, the WikiLeaks founder’s brother, accepted the honour on his behalf at a ceremony in Mexico on Wednesday. He described the award as a “significant” step in the campaign to free his sibling from prison.

Mr Assange’s family were invited to the country by Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to receive the award and attend events today marking Mexico’s independence. Mr Lopez Obrador is a vocal supporter of Mr Assange and has pressed US President Joe Biden to drop efforts to prosecute the journalist.

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Mr Shipton said Mexico’s support for the campaign to free his brother is “priceless,” given that it is a close neighbour of the US. Speaking about the award, Mr Shipton said that it has reinvigorated the campaign and lifted the spirits of his brother, who remains incarcerated in London’s high-security Belmarsh prison.