Election of Australia: Bellen becomes president, thwarts Hofer

Canberra: Alexander Van Der Bellen has won the presidential election of Australia. He prevented Norbert Hofer from becoming the state’s first far-right head of the European Union (EU).

Bellen, a pro-EU independent backed by the Greens, beat Hofer by just 31,000 votes. His victory was announced on Monday last.

“My defeat was definitely a ‘sad day’ but, my people should not be disheartened. The efforts made for this election campaign are not wasted. In fact, it is a future investment,” said Hofer.

“I accept that many Australians had distinctive views and that some people were angry too. Moreover, I want to say that people can be different and still respect one-another,” said the 72-year-old newly-elected Australian President.

Highlights:

• Although Bellen is officially independent, he led Australia’s Greens for a decade.
• European Green politicians hailed him for being elected as the world’s first green head of state.