Opposition Coalition Calls for Reform of Election Commission

People Power Party (PPP) members, the Reform Party, and independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon united in calling for reforms to the National Election Commission (NEC). Jang Dong-hyuk, the PPP leader, faces further marginalization as he is excluded from this conservative coalition amid leadership challenges within his party.

On June 23, Lee Seong-kwon of the PPP co-hosted a forum titled 'Electoral Rights Violations and Election System Reform' with the Coalition of Civic Groups at the National Assembly. The event saw attendance from senior PPP lawmakers including Joo Ho-young, Kim Gi-hyeon, and Yoon Jae-ok, as well as members from the 'Alternative and Future' faction and pro-Han Dong-hoon lawmakers. Reform Party floor leader Cheon Ha-ram and Han also drew attention by their presence.

Lee distanced himself from Jang's call for a 'full re-election,' stating, "While restoring voters' electoral rights is crucial, the notion of a full re-election, which could lead to the disenfranchisement of voters who exercised their rights properly, may not align with current laws and the constitution." He emphasized the need to reject conspiracy theories surrounding election fraud.

Cheon also remarked, "The issue of electoral rights violations should steer clear of excessive partisanship. Among those whose rights have been infringed, there are citizens who support not only the PPP but also the Democratic Party and the Reform Party." He added, "We cannot limit the discussion to only those within the PPP who believe in election fraud; this must be a nationwide movement involving all citizens."

Regarding the NEC, he stated, "It should be dismantled rather than merely reformed," criticizing President Lee Jae-myung and the Democratic Party for hastily proposing sweeping reforms without addressing the root causes of the issues.

Han criticized the NEC, saying, "Such incompetence borders on corruption," pointing out that the commission's failure to manage ballot production and operations stems from a lack of proper oversight.

He also directed criticism at President Lee regarding the ballot shortage crisis, asserting, "The president and the Democratic Party should not act as if they are victims and propose a 'one-point constitutional amendment' without taking responsibility for this situation. They must reflect and apologize for their role in this crisis."

Han concluded by stating, "Our goal is to achieve a resounding victory in the 2028 general elections and reclaim power in 2030. In a time when justice and competence are in decline, conservative politics must demonstrate its capability and effectiveness."

With the PPP, the Reform Party, and Han coming together, there are expectations that the movement for NEC reform will solidify the conservative coalition. Jang, currently hospitalized due to health issues, has been effectively sidelined as Lee and Cheon distance themselves from theories of election fraud.