Saturday, 18/05/2019 10:23 (GMT+7)
Australia’s 23rd Prime Minister and Labor elder statesman Bob Hawke has died at the age of 89.
The legendary politician's wife Blanche d'Alpuget said in a statement that her husband died peacefully at home.
PM Bob Hawke passes away at 89 (Source: 3AW)
“Today we lost Bob Hawke, a great Australian – many would say the greatest Australian of the post-war era,” she said.
“I and Bob’s children, Sue, Stephen, Rosslyn and stepson, Louis, and his grandchildren, will hold a private funeral.
“A memorial service will be held in Sydney in coming weeks.
“Bob Hawke and Paul Keating and their governments modernised the Australian economy, paving the way for an unprecedented period of recession-free economic growth and job creation," she added.
His death comes days before Australians go to the polls. The Labor party posted a tribute on Twitter to one of their most fondly-remembered characters. “Vale Bob. We will remember him. In solidarity, forever. May he rest in peace.”
PM Scott Morrison praised Mr. Hawke as a great Australian who served his country with "passion, courage and an intellectual horsepower".
Mr. Hawke served as Australia’s PM from 1983-1991 and led Labor to four consecutive election victories./.
Compiled by BTA