Hwang Kyo-ahn Declares Candidacy for Ruling Party Leader... "Will Support Yoon Government to Achieve Conservative Regime Success"

"Experience Overcoming Crisis as Acting President"
"April 15 General Election Was Fraudulent... Police and Prosecutors Must Investigate"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Hyun-ji] Former Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn officially declared his candidacy for the next leader of the People Power Party on the 17th.

On the same day, Hwang held a press conference at the National Assembly and stated, "At a time when both the country and the party are in crisis, a person with the experience and wisdom to overcome this is absolutely necessary." He added, "I have extensive experience covering all three branches: legislative, judicial, and executive. I also have experience overcoming national crises as Acting President."

He said, "Two years ago, during the April 15 general election, the forced push for unification prevented those who worked hard for the party at the time from even having a chance to participate in the primaries. As a result, the party has come to this state. I will never make such a mistake again." Hwang had resigned from his position as leader of the United Future Party (the predecessor of the People Power Party) taking responsibility for the defeat in the April 15, 2020 general election.

He also brought up allegations of election fraud in the April 15 general election again. He said, "The April 15 general election was fraudulent," adding, "A massive cartel of evil, including the National Election Commission, the Supreme Court, the Democratic Party of Korea, polling agencies, and some media outlets, has engulfed our country." He emphasized the need for fact-finding by stating, "The prosecution and police must investigate the election fraud. The National Assembly must establish a special committee to investigate the April 15 election fraud."

He proposed reform tasks such as election system reform. Hwang emphasized, "Our party's elections must be directly managed by our party. They should not be entrusted to external bodies such as the National Election Commission," and added, "Since it is about electing the party leader, it is proper to conduct elections centered on party members." He also pledged to strengthen nomination ethics standards and abolish special activity funds for members of the National Assembly.

He stated, "I will help the Yoon Suk-yeol administration and build a fast and strong People Power Party that achieves the success of conservative governments," and emphasized, "If there is work to be done for the country and the party, I will lead decisively without considering personal gain."