[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] Cheon Ha-ram, former head of the People Power Party's Suncheon district committee, classified as part of the 'Lee Jun-seok faction,' announced his intention to run in the People Power Party leadership election, emerging as a new 'dark horse' in the competition among party leadership candidates. Meanwhile, the two leading candidates, Ahn Cheol-soo and Kim Ki-hyun, responded cautiously, mentioning 'fair play' and the 'convention effect.'
On the 2nd, Representative Ahn said on BBS's 'Jeon Young-shin's Morning Journal,' "If possible, it would be good for various people to participate in this leadership election to attract the interest of many citizens. Regardless of who becomes the leader, if our party can create a convention effect through this, it will become an asset for the party."
He added, "Now, regarding this issue, I am thinking about the entire party. Before my personal interests, this is the way for the party to do well and for all members to prosper. Therefore, I think it is good that many new figures are showing enthusiasm and expressing their intentions."
With Cheon, the district committee head, entering the leadership race, there is a possibility that some votes supporting former leader Lee Jun-seok or former Representative Yoo Seung-min may shift to him. Notably, the day before, former leader Lee emphasized on his social media, "In elections, we should always choose the best, not the lesser evil or second best. That way, there will be no regrets. Keep this in mind." This statement is interpreted as being mindful of votes that might go to Ahn following Yoo's decision not to run.
When asked by the host if this creates tension, Representative Ahn said, "Not at all. Party members will observe various factors and make wise judgments. They will consider who can gain even one more vote in next year’s election and who can lead our general election to victory, thereby ensuring the success of the Yoon Seok-yeol administration as party leader. That is all they will think about."
Representative Kim said, "During the presidential election, I went to Suncheon several times, campaigned with Committee Head Cheon, and had many discussions. I’m not sure who else is involved now, but it is desirable for various talents to emerge evenly and compete fiercely, while maintaining fair play for the health of the party."
Representative Yoon Sang-hyun of the People Power Party, allied with Ahn Cheol-soo through the 'Ahn-Yoon Coalition,' also said, "We welcome Committee Head Cheon. The path for the People Power Party and the Yoon Seok-yeol administration to succeed is through broad talent recruitment and balanced appointments. We welcome the young warriors from challenging districts."
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