Woo Sang-ho: "To Win the Seoul Mayoral Election, We Must Join Hands with the Open Democratic Party"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jin-young] Woo Sang-ho, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, argued on the 5th that the Democratic Party should merge with the Open Democratic Party to win the Seoul mayoral by-election, in relation to Jeong Bong-ju, a preliminary candidate of the Open Democratic Party, running for the election.

On the morning of the same day, Woo said on his Facebook, "Looking at the current trend of public opinion polls, any candidate can win in a three-way race, but if the opposition unification is achieved, victory cannot be guaranteed."

He added, "Even if an opposition unified candidate emerges, a winning structure must be created. Public opinion polls confirm that if the progressive camp unites, victory is possible even in a two-way race," and said, "Since Candidate Jeong has advocated for the unification of the two parties, I want to revive the spark of unification."

He continued, "The first step for supporters of the progressive camp, including the Open Democratic Party, the Justice Party, and Transition Korea, to unite is the merger and solidarity with the Open Democratic Party," emphasizing, "To protect democracy and practice progressive values, forces sharing similar lines and values must join hands to win."

Woo also urged a decision at the leadership level. He appealed, "I also appeal to the Democratic Party leadership. Under-the-table talks are necessary for election victory," and requested, "If unification before the election is difficult, simultaneous promotion of candidate unification and post-election merger agreement should be pursued."

He added, "Abandoning myself to create a greater us is the command of the Candlelight public sentiment. Under the goal of protecting President Moon Jae-in and completing reforms, how can we be indifferent?" and concluded, "I earnestly ask for the leadership's decision and dialogue of the two parties."