Expectations Rise as Han Donghoon's Candidacy Seems Unlikely
Irresponsible Actions Driven by Personal Ambition
On July 8, former People Power Party floor leader Kwon Sungdong commented on the sudden resignation of former People Power Party Innovation Committee Chairman Ahn Cheolsoo, who raised the issue of expelling the so-called "double Kwon" (referring to former floor leader Kwon and former emergency committee chairman Kwon Youngse). Kwon stated, "It is deeply regrettable to see someone prioritize personal advancement even in the current crisis." He argued that Ahn had targeted figures like himself in an attempt to draw public attention and position himself for the party leadership.
Kwon suggested that Ahn's abrupt resignation as Innovation Committee Chairman might have been motivated by calculations regarding his chances of winning the party leadership. The previous day, Ahn had resigned, citing problems in the selection process for innovation committee members. Notably, it was reported that Ahn had also demanded the expulsion of both Kwon, who led the People Power Party during the impeachment crisis of former President Yoon Sukyeol, and Kwon Youngse, the former emergency committee chairman.
Kwon questioned the background of Ahn's resignation. He said, "On June 30, Ahn visited my office and we discussed various issues at length," adding, "At that time, Ahn emphasized that the vision of the Innovation Committee would focus on reforming the Yeouido Institute and renewing policies, and he clearly stated that he had 'no intention whatsoever' of running in the party convention. There was also no mention at all of personnel reform." He continued, "The background of this sudden 'withdrawal operation' over the weekend is already becoming clear through various channels," and claimed, "Those around Ahn likely fueled his ambition by suggesting that the chances of former representative Han Donghoon running are low."
Kwon speculated, "There were irresponsible suggestions that targeting the so-called 'double Kwon' and calling for a personnel purge would be advantageous for winning the party leadership, and in the end, Ahn may have succumbed to personal ambition and accepted this advice."
He also criticized Ahn's actions, stating, "It is wrong to use the hard-won energy for innovation as fuel for one's own political ambitions," and added, "This has caused significant trouble for fellow innovation committee members who made difficult decisions." He continued, "Above all, using the important position of Innovation Committee Chairman as a spotlight for personal advancement makes one a target for innovation themselves," and argued, "One must not forget that sowing confusion with divisive rhetoric and seeking personal gain from that confusion can never succeed."
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