Bali Nine: executions unlikely to be this month
THE execution of Bali Nine pair Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran appears unlikely to occur this month, as Indonesia's foreign minister defends the country's decision by saying it is ultimately a law enforcement issue.
Yesterday a transfer of the two Australians in preparation for their execution was postponed at the request of the country's attorney-general, Muhammad Prasetyo.
The plan was to move the pair this week from Bali's Kerobokan prison to the island prison of Nusa Kambangan, where they will face the firing squad.
Mr Prasetyo said he asked for the delay so that Chan and Sukumaran's families could spend more time with them.
A spokesman for Indonesia's attorney-general now says it is "almost certain" the pair, who are on death row for attempting to smuggle drugs out of the country in 2005, will not be executed this month.
After visiting the men in prison their Australian lawyer, Julian McMahon, said it was a "welcome relief" and took away the sense of urgency.
Foreign Minister Julie Bishop also welcomed the delay.
