Prime Minister Jeong: "No Time to Care About Presidential or Party Leadership"

Prime Minister Jeong Sye-kyun

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Kwang-ho] Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said on the 4th, "My mind is filled with worries and concerns about the prevention of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and overcoming the crisis," adding, "I have nothing to do with presidential or party leadership matters, nor do I have time to be interested in them."

On the same day, Prime Minister Chung stated through his Facebook, "I feel heavy-hearted and regretful due to recent reports surrounding me."

He was referring to reports suggesting that Prime Minister Chung has been expanding contacts with ruling and opposition lawmakers with the presidential election in mind or that he might support former lawmaker Kim Bu-gyeom in the Democratic Party convention.

Prime Minister Chung explained, "It appears as if I am engaging in political moves when I should be devoting all my efforts to COVID-19 prevention," adding, "This is entirely speculation and misunderstanding."

However, he clarified, "The 21st National Assembly has been newly formed, and I have met some ruling and opposition lawmakers and plan to meet more in the future," explaining, "This is naturally necessary for smooth state administration and cooperation with the National Assembly."

He further added, "Meeting some defeated candidates was merely to comfort those who have long been involved in politics."

Prime Minister Chung apologized, saying, "I am sorry for causing concern to the public due to unnecessary speculation and misunderstanding."