[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yukbong] Choi Kyunghwan, leader of the Alternative New Party, recently expressed strong regret over the Democratic Party of Korea’s derogatory remark calling the Alternative New Party ‘Honam Pali’.
On the 15th, Choi Kyunghwan, leader of the Alternative New Party, held a press conference at the Gwangju City Council and opened by criticizing, “The Democratic Party of Korea, which until recently participated in the 4+1 negotiation group and accomplished election system reform, prosecution reform, and the kindergarten three laws reform together with the Alternative New Party, is being disrespectful by making such criticisms.”
He continued, “It is not politically ethical to seek cooperation when needed and then criticize now,” and announced, “The Alternative New Party will actively pursue the unification of the third force centered on Honam-affiliated lawmakers in Gwangju, its stronghold.”
He said, “Before criticizing us, the Democratic Party of Korea should listen to the demands of Gwangju and Honam people,” and demanded, “Please do not just emphasize Blue House experience and presidential marketing, but sincerely present alternatives for Gwangju and Honam.”
He also added, “The Alternative New Party will protect Gwangju’s pride and establish Honam’s political status through the consolidation and unification of moderate reformist third forces,” and “We will prevent one-party dominance in Gwangju and Honam and win the general election.”
Leader Choi appealed, “I call on Sohn Hakkyu, leader of the Bareunmirae Party, Jeong Dongyoung, leader of the Democratic Peace Party, and independent Honam lawmakers,” and raised his voice, “Currently, voters in Gwangju and Honam are fed up with the power struggle politics of the two major parties, but at the same time, they are criticizing the fragmented state of the disorganized third forces. Unification is not a choice but a necessity. Let us complete reformist unification against conservative unification.”
Leader Choi proposed, “Let us create a roundtable for the unification of the third forces before the Lunar New Year holiday and present it as a gift to the people,” and added, “We have already formed a unification promotion committee chaired by lawmaker Yoo Seongyeop. Let us hold a roundtable before the Lunar New Year holiday in any format.”
Finally, he emphasized, “The unification of the third forces has the dual effect of developing a multi-party consensus democracy in the National Assembly and creating a political competition system in regional politics,” and “The Alternative New Party will be the faithful successor of the Kim Daejung spirit and a devoted practitioner of the May 18 Gwangju spirit.”
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