I think they meant a tool for the government (in the sense that they can use him as an example to pass laws limiting press freedom or to punish him to dissuade

I think they meant a tool for the government (in the sense that they can use him as an example to pass laws limiting press freedom or to punish him to dissuade others). Also the sexual crimes related to Assange (regardless of whether you think they're true or not) are allegations.