Park Sung-joong "Early to be party leader but high possibility of running in general election"
Ahn Cheol-soo "Talented individual but needs to gain political experience"
Minister of Justice Han Dong-hoon is answering reporters' questions as he arrives at the Ministry of Justice in the Government Complex Gwacheon on the morning of the 28th. Photo by Yonhap News
[Asia Economy Reporter Park Hyun-joo] Within the People Power Party, there is ongoing debate over the speculation that Han Dong-hoon, the Minister of Justice and a close aide to President Yoon Seok-yeol, might be drafted into politics. Some argue that Minister Han, who has high public recognition, should step up to lead the charge for the 2024 general election. On the other hand, there are opinions that, due to his limited political experience, it would be more appropriate for him to run in the next general election rather than become party leader.
Park Sung-joong, a member of the People Power Party, highly evaluated the possibility of Minister Han running in the next general election. On the 30th, during CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyun-jung's News Show,' he said, "As he has shown stability and clear logic while clashing with Democratic Party lawmakers in the National Assembly, rumors about his candidacy for the general election and party leadership have surfaced, and recent polls even show him ranking first in suitability as the next political leader. Speaking personally, the possibility of him running in the next general election is quite high."
However, he considered it premature for Minister Han to run for party leader at the party convention, which is expected to take place in late February to early March next year. Park said about Minister Han, "He is not a politician, but the speculation about his entry into politics has become a hot topic. Although there are talks that there is no star candidate this time, there are actually several contenders within the party, so it will not be easy." Nevertheless, he left the possibility open by adding, "It cannot be said that running for party leader is impossible."
On the other hand, there are opinions that drafting Minister Han is realistically difficult. On the 1st, Assemblyman Ahn Cheol-soo said on YTN Radio, "The most important thing is his own decision," but added, "In fact, he needs to gain political experience." He continued, "Minister Han is undoubtedly a capable talent, but since the People Power Party must win the general election, the party leader should not make trial-and-error mistakes." Additionally, Assemblyman Ahn pointed out that with many pressing issues such as national investigations and by-elections, it is not advisable for the Minister of Justice to quit his post and run in the election.
Assemblyman Lee Yong-ho also expressed a negative stance on the speculation about drafting Minister Han. On the same day, appearing on YTN News Rider, he said, "How many months has it been since Minister Han left the prosecution? There are many tasks to be done in the cabinet right now, so even mentioning that he would come to the party and take on the role of party leader is inappropriate."
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