Both Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton have paused their election campaigns in a show of respect following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 in Vatican City.
The Vatican confirmed the Pope died peacefully at his residence, Domus Sanctae Marthae, early Monday morning local time, following a reported stroke and subsequent heart failure. His passing has drawn tributes from world leaders and religious communities across the globe.
In Australia, political leaders swiftly suspended campaign activities for the day, setting aside political differences to honour the late Pontiff’s global spiritual influence and legacy of compassion.
Mr Albanese described the Pope as “a devoted shepherd and voice for the marginalised,” acknowledging the profound impact Pope Francis had not just on the Catholic Church, but on humanitarian causes and interfaith dialogue around the world.
Peter Dutton also paid tribute, calling the Pope “a moral leader whose commitment to peace, dignity, and justice resonated far beyond the Church.” He said the Coalition would pause its public engagements as a mark of respect.
Flags on federal buildings across Australia have been lowered to half-mast, and discussions are underway regarding a national day of mourning. Senior figures from Australia’s Catholic community are also expected to attend the funeral services in Rome, which the Vatican says will reflect Pope Francis’s wish for a modest farewell.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Pope Francis made history in 2013 when he became the first Jesuit, first Latin American, and first non-European pontiff in more than 1,200 years. His papacy was marked by outspoken advocacy on climate change, social inequality, refugee rights, and Church reform.
With just under two weeks until the federal election, today’s campaign pause offered a moment of unity in the face of a global loss. Political leaders are expected to resume normal campaign activities following the official period of mourning.
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