Ahn Cheol-soo Proposes "Relay Public Debate" with Lee Hae-chan and Hwang Kyo-ahn

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] Ahn Cheol-soo, Chairman of the Preparatory Committee for the Formation of the People’s Party, proposed a 'relay public debate' to Lee Hae-chan, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, and Hwang Kyo-ahn, leader of the United Future Party.

On the 23rd, at the People’s Party founding convention, Chairman Ahn stated in his acceptance speech as party leader, "Where is the path for our Republic of Korea? How should we change politics for this? How can we revive the economy? What should we do about North Korea’s nuclear disarmament and the Korea-US alliance? How can we restore the values of justice and fairness that have collapsed?" He added, "If party leaders come forward directly to present reform visions and solutions before the people and receive their evaluation, this general election can truly become a stage for future-oriented policy competition."

He also said, "Only the People’s Party can achieve genuine reform," and added, "Four years ago, the people created the People’s Party to break the entrenched two-party politics, but we failed to repay that support. The most vicious political oppression in the history of Korean political parties, caused by government-side rebate manipulation immediately after the People’s Party’s general election victory, was the direct cause of the party’s dysfunction, but I will not blame that."

He emphasized pragmatic centrist politics. Chairman Ahn said, "If there are those who sympathize with and participate in the path for the country’s future, including government reform, public sector reform, labor reform, regulatory reform, and pension reform, we will join hands and surely lay the foundation for national grand reform."

He also said, "With firm and resolute determination, let us together ignite an Orange Revolution to change politics and transform the Republic of Korea."

Regarding the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), he said, "It is time to steel our minds and prepare for a long-term battle." Chairman Ahn stated, "The president should step forward with a special address to honestly disclose the shortcomings in the initial response, the current situation assessment, quarantine measures, and livelihood measures, and seek cooperation from the people. Who would believe if reliable quarantine measures are not taken but the people are asked to trust?" He also urged, "Please do not prioritize Xi Jinping’s visit to Korea over the safety and lives of the people."

He made a proposal to the North Korean authorities as well. Chairman Ahn said, "The way for you to overcome difficulties is to enter the path of a normal state as soon as possible. If you dismantle your nuclear weapons and enter the path of a normal state, the People’s Party will sincerely welcome it. We will spare no support and cooperation and walk the path of national great harmony together."

Criticizing the behavior of existing politics, he mentioned a "small episode." "When I was a member of the National Assembly, I had just gotten into a car to go to an appointment after leaving the National Assembly. Suddenly, someone opened the car door while it was moving and started taking photos rapidly. I thought there are all kinds of people and let it go, but the next day, an article appeared with a large photo titled ‘Ahn Cheol-soo fleeing without even closing the car door.’ The only thing old-fashioned politics is good at is this kind of image manipulation."

Chairman Ahn said, "There is no such politics in any advanced country I have visited," and added, "It is politics that ruins the country. That is why our country is struggling."