FORMER prime minister Kevin Rudd has tweeted his farewell to his 1.3 million followers.
Mr Rudd ended his 15-year parliamentary career with a shock announcement to the house on Wednesday night (AEDT).
“To all my friends on Twitter I wanted to tell you all that I have decided to go on to the next phase of my life,” Mr Rudd tweeted following his resignation in parliament.
“Thank you for all your kindness and support.”
Mr Rudd was among the first mainstream Australian politicians to engage in twitter shortly after the 2007 election, and quickly amassed a large following.
The former prime minister’s resignation on Wednesday was met with a mix of tributes and condemnation.
Long-time Rudd supporter, Labor MP Ed Husic, said his former boss was a terrific parliamentarian.
“A great PM, a fine citizen. Thank you for all you have done for our nation,” he said.
Beyond Blue chief executive Kate Carnell told Mr Rudd there is life after politics.
“In fact a great life! Good luck and look after yourself.”
Others, however, were less complimentary to the two-time PM and his plan to start a National Apology Organisation.
“Will that be to apologise to us 4 the pink batts, the boats, the economy, the disgusting behaviour in parliament, endless speeches,” said @allankmelb.
“And selfies,” replied @leeroysmith68.
“I see Australian politics refuses to remain moderately stable for more than an hour”, tweeted @upulie.
