[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Following former Gyeongnam Governor Kim Tae-ho's indication of running as an independent, former Liberty Korea Party leader Hong Joon-pyo also expressed his intention to reject the party nomination, drawing attention to whether the Future United Party's nomination committee's reform nominations will create an 'independent belt' in the Busan-Gyeongnam (PK) region.
On the 8th, former leader Hong posted on his Facebook, stating, "The nomination screening for Yangsan-eul this time is a typical case of injustice and collusion," hinting at his refusal to accept the nomination.
He added, "During my 38 years in public service, I never yielded to injustice and collusion," and "To comply with injustice and collusion is not befitting of Hong Joon-pyo," suggesting further actions. This came after the United Party's nomination committee cut off (excluded) former leader Hong, who insisted on running in Yangsan-eul, and designated the area as a primary contest region. With Hong expressing strong dissatisfaction with the nomination results, it is highly likely that he will announce his intention to run as an independent at a press conference scheduled for the afternoon of the 9th.
Former Governor Kim Tae-ho, who was also cut off along with former leader Hong, officially announced his intention to run as an independent through Facebook on the same day. He said, "I am leaving the party temporarily. I am leaving my home party, which I have never left before, for a while. I will definitely come back alive," adding, "I never imagined running as an independent, but today I am about to leave the party I have never left before, even if only temporarily."
He also criticized the nomination committee's decision. He said, "The party nomination committee made a really bad decision. What kind of absurd logic is that 'great politicians cannot work for hometown development'?" and "If they thought anyone could be nominated, it is an arrogant decision that pours cold water on the earnest hopes of local residents eagerly awaiting regional development," criticizing the committee's cut-off (exclusion) decision.
They are not the only ones hinting at independent runs in the PK region. On the 5th, five-term lawmaker Lee Ju-young, who was cut off in the announcement, also expressed his intention to reject the nomination results on Facebook, saying, "The nomination committee's cut-off of me in the nomination screening is an unfair and unjust act that I absolutely cannot accept." He stated, "It is an insult to the citizens of Masan who loved and supported me," and "I intend to fight against this unjust nomination with the spirit of Masan, the sacred place of democracy. I will consult with you."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
