[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Park Chang-won] Ha Min-cheol, former Jeju Provincial Assembly member, has registered as a preliminary candidate for the People Power Party in Jeju-si Yeondong (Eul) for the Jeju Provincial Assembly with the Jeju Election Commission. Whether he can succeed in his bid for a fourth term in this election has emerged as the most closely watched issue in the Jeju Provincial Assembly election.
Preliminary candidate Ha served as a provincial assembly member for three consecutive terms in the 8th, 9th, and 10th assemblies and was the chairman of the Environment and Urban Committee of the Jeju Provincial Assembly.
After failing to secure a fourth term in the 2018 local elections, losing to a Democratic Party candidate, Ha has registered as a preliminary candidate for the 2022 local elections with a determination to make a comeback. We met with candidate Ha to hear his resolve for the election, his pledges, and his views on local issues.
▲ What is your attitude toward this election, preliminary candidate Ha Min-cheol?
= This is my last election as I wrap up my political career. During the four years out of office, I have listened to and observed what the residents of Jeju and Yeondong want. I will approach this election with humility and earnestness to once again earn the choice of Yeondong residents and contribute to Jeju’s development.
▲ You failed to achieve a historic four consecutive terms as a Jeju Provincial Assembly member. How did you spend the past four years?
= I consistently volunteered for children’s school commute safety and weed removal in the area, which helped me understand what the community truly needs. These four years as a private citizen allowed me to reflect on myself and meet residents without any barriers, which was a valuable time.
▲ What are your local pledges for the Yeondong area in this election?
= To make Yeondong the happiest area in Jeju, I will lead the way with three major policy directions: Safe Yeondong, Cultural Growth, and Resident Happiness, to create a new era of success for Yeondong. After the approval of the reconstruction of the 30-year-old Jewon Apartment, I will establish the environmental foundation necessary for a successful reconstruction. I also pledge to promote the relocation of the Marine Corps 92nd Battalion stationed in Jeongsil and convert that space into a cultural center for residents.
▲ How do you view the achievements of the Jeju Provincial Assembly over the past four years?
= In the 29th assembly, the Democratic Party held 29 seats while the People Power Party had 5. Due to the overwhelming majority of the Democratic Party, many issues were pushed through, and the policies of the numerically inferior People Power Party did not gain momentum. Just as an airplane needs balance on both sides to fly far and stably, fierce debate and cooperation are necessary in the assembly. Therefore, a balanced assembly is essential in this election.
▲ What is the most urgent issue among Jeju’s current challenges?
= The swift advancement of the second airport, a presidential pledge. The Democratic Party’s various opposing opinions have stalled progress in the assembly. I served as chairman of the Special Committee on New Airport Construction in the 8th Jeju Provincial Assembly. With this experience and expertise, I will contribute to resolving conflicts and advancing the second airport project quickly.
▲ If elected, what are your main plans for legislative activities?
= I will revitalize the Jeju Future Strategy Industry Research Association, which I have been involved with since my first term, and continuously discover future industries and sources of income for Jeju. Although Yeondong is home to many major government offices and facilities, development has been slow. I will support the enactment of ordinances and legislative activities to improve residential environments and redevelop multi-family housing areas that have not yet been addressed.
▲ What is your response to concerns about your age, as you are 67 this year?
= Just as the world follows the harmony of yin and yang, the assembly needs a balance of old and new. I will mingle with young politicians, make concessions, and as the eldest, share my experience and political knowledge without leading by age but by blending well.
▲ Lastly, what would you like to say to the voters?
= There is more work to do ahead than what I have done so far. I promise to respond to residents’ expectations as a more sincere worker by identifying their needs and prioritizing policies that enhance residents’ happiness.
Jeju = Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Park Chang-won captain@asiae.co.kr
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