Australia’s main political parties suspended their campaign on Tuesday after Pope Francis’ death, with leaders paying tribute to the late pope as the May 3 federal election.
Broadcasting firm ABC reported that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the morning mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne, while opposition leader Peter Dutton said he would spend a day “reflecting” and added today that it was not a day of “big political activity.”
Both leaders canceled scheduled campaigns but will hold a third leader debate Tuesday night, according to news agency AAP.
Albanese, a Catholic, called Pope Francis “one of the most important of all the Fathers,” praised his humility and focus on social justice. On Tuesday, the flag on Commonwealth buildings will be lowered to half the mast, the government said.
Peter Dutton, the leader of the Australian opposition, attended Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney after Pope Francis’ death. The Pope, who led the Catholic Church since 2013, passed away on Easter Monday at 88, has had a profound impact on millions of people around the world. Mick Tsikas/AAP/DPA
