Controversy continues over comments made by National Assembly Speaker Cho Jung-sik regarding the issue of presidential re-election, which he described as a matter for the public to decide. Cho stated that constitutional amendments require consensus among political actors and public choice, but the fallout from his remarks persists.
Han Byeong-do, the acting leader of the Democratic Party and floor leader, urged during a Supreme Council meeting that the People Power Party is attempting to normalize discussions about presidential re-election, calling it a baseless claim. He demanded an immediate halt to such assertions.
He referenced Article 128, Section 2 of the Constitution, which states that any constitutional amendment regarding the extension or change of a president's term does not apply to the sitting president at the time of the proposal. He noted, "It was a general statement, but it caused confusion related to re-election. I regret hearing that from Speaker Cho directly."
In a Facebook post late the previous night, Cho clarified that the content of Article 128, Section 2 must be respected and that the re-election of the sitting president is not a subject of future constitutional discussions. He expressed regret for any misunderstandings and controversies that arose from his comments.
However, the People Power Party criticized Cho, recalling that during his campaign for the speakership, he had positioned himself as a supporter of Lee Jae-myung's presidential victory. They stated, "The architect of Lee Jae-myung's campaign is now positioning himself as the architect of Lee's re-election."
Jang Dong-hyuk, the party leader, held a press conference where he asserted that the reason the pro-Lee faction is fixated on re-election is clear: it is their only way to escape accountability for their alleged crimes. He warned that if a 'one-point constitutional amendment' occurs, it would lead to further controversy regarding Article 128, Section 2, suggesting that they would argue for the possibility of re-election under the guise of public choice. He emphasized, "Five words, 'No re-election,' should suffice. There is no reason for Speaker Cho to be suspected." He cautioned that if they attempt to cancel the president's trial and pursue re-election, it would mark the end of their administration.
Additionally, he responded to Han Byeong-do's dismissal of the claims as baseless, stating, "Instead of pointing fingers at the People Power Party, the Democratic Party should also convey to the president, 'We are in trouble, so please say there will be no re-election.'"
* This article has been translated by AI.
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