"I Have Things to Say, But I Will Refrain"
Draws Line Against Public Confrontation
"The Greater the Authority, the Greater the Responsibility... Appropriate Action Is Needed"
Ahn Cheolsoo, a member of the People Power Party, refuted the claim that Kwon Youngse and Kwon Seongdong were targeted as subjects of the 'personnel reform theory' he advocated, and stated that he would refrain from engaging in a public debate on the issue.
Ahn Cheolsoo, a member of the People Power Party, refuted the claim that Kwon Youngse and Kwon Seongdong were targeted as subjects of the 'personnel reform theory' he advocated.
On July 9, appearing on CBS Radio's 'Kim Hyunjung's News Show,' Ahn said regarding Kwon Youngse and Kwon Seongdong's direct criticism of his position through social media, "I have things to say on each point, but I am holding back." He added, "They have their own thoughts and positions, and I respect that. I judged that it would not be appropriate for us to engage in a war of words."
He also drew a clear line regarding the interpretation that the two lawmakers were the targets of his call for personnel reform. "I have never once specified anyone," he said, making it clear that he had not singled out any individuals.
However, he was clear about the issue of political responsibility. Ahn emphasized, "In any case, those who bear political responsibility must be held appropriately accountable for it. The size of authority and the size of responsibility are proportional. If the Innovation Committee demonstrates such actions first, people will be surprised."
Regarding the party leadership system, he said, "If things get worse, it could become like a dysfunctional family where nothing can be agreed upon," and added, "If we see reform as what our party needs right now, a single-leader system is most suitable for that."
Ahn also responded to criticism from Cho Kyungtae, a party leadership contender who had criticized him. Referring to Cho's criticism of his voluntary resignation as head of the Innovation Committee, Ahn said, "I think he spoke without knowing the details," and countered, "If he knew the facts, he should criticize the party. If he criticizes me, that is completely turning the blame around."
Previously, on July 7, Ahn held a press conference and announced his resignation as head of the Innovation Committee and his intention to run in the party leadership election scheduled for August. He cited as reasons for his resignation the party’s failure to accept personnel reform for those responsible for the candidate replacement controversy during the last presidential election, and the issue of forming the Innovation Committee without agreement from the party leadership. Political circles inside and outside the party view Kwon Youngse, former chairman of the Nomination Management Committee, and Kwon Seongdong, former floor leader, as the figures Ahn was referring to.
In response, the two former party leaders, often referred to as the 'double Kwon system,' strongly objected. They sharply criticized Ahn, saying, "He himself is a subject for reform," "It is deeply regrettable to see someone prioritize personal gain even in a crisis," and "Such despicable behavior is driving the party into internal strife."
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