Rudd says execution won't help Indonesia

Former prime minister Kevin Rudd says the execution of two Australians won't help the people of Indonesia.

Australians Myuran Sukumaran and Andrew Chan and seven others are due to be executed in Indonesia around midnight.

"Indonesia, like Australia, often relies on acts of clemency for its nationals from other (governments)," Mr Rudd tweeted on Tuesday.

"This won't help the good people of Indonesia."

He said capital punishment achieved nothing but the "further destruction of life".

"As a long-standing friend of Indonesia with a deep affection for its people, I add my voice respectfully requesting this act of clemency."