Gillard wins Labor leadership vote against Rudd

Melbourne, Feb.27 (ANI): Former Austrlian foreign minister Kevin Rudd has pledged his loyalty to Prime Minister Julia Gillard after his failed leadership push.

Rudd lost the ballot to Gillard, 31 votes to 71 on Monday.

"I accept fully the verdict of the caucus. I bear no one any malice, and if I've done wrong to anyone with what I've said and what I've done, I apologise," news.com.au quoted Rudd, as saying.

Rudd said it was time the "wounds were healed" within the party.

Rudd said he believed he was doing exactly the right thing when he challenged for the Labor leader, and when he resigned last week as foreign minister.

He said he knew it would be tough.

Rudd said he fully accepted the verdict of caucus.

"I dedicate myself to working fully for Gillard's re-election as the prime minister of Australia. I will do so with my absolute ability dedicated to that task," Rudd said.

Rudd will continue as the member for Griffith and beyond the next election if re-elected. (ANI)