Six key ministers resigned in the aftermath of Gillard`s dumping.Sydney (ANTARA News/AFP) - Kevin Rudd was sworn in as Australia`s new prime minister Thursday almost three years to the day since he was ruthlessly ousted from the top job by Julia Gillard, as Labor fights for electoral survival.
The 55-year-old sealed his dramatic return after a leadership ballot on Wednesday (June 26), in which Gillard, the country`s first female premier, was deposed in a party-room vote and announced her retirement from politics.
Rudd`s promotion marks a stunning turnaround for the former leader who will now lead Labor to elections scheduled for September 14, which polls predict Tony Abbott`s conservative opposition will win by a landslide.
Six key ministers resigned in the aftermath of Gillard`s dumping, including her most loyal supporter, Treasurer and deputy leader Wayne Swan.
On Thursday, Gillard`s Transport Minister Anthony Albanese was sworn in as Rudd`s deputy by Governor General Quentin Bryce while former Immigration Minister Chris Bowen was appointed treasurer.
Labor`s popularity has tanked under Gillard but Rudd, who ended a decade of conservative rule with a landslide 2007 election win, remains popular with voters and his elevation is expected to give the party a significant boost.
(Uu.H-AK)
Editor: Priyambodo RH
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