Candidates for People Power Party Leadership Show Divided Views
on Dialogue with Jeong Cheongrae
When asked whether they would "refuse to recognize Jeong Cheongrae, the leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, as a counterpart for dialogue," the candidates running for the leadership of the People Power Party gave differing answers. Former Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Moonsoo and lawmaker Jang Donghyuk held up an 'X', while lawmakers Ahn Cheolsoo and Cho Kyungtae held up an 'O'.
During the People Power Party leadership candidate debate broadcast held at the Channel A studio in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of August 10, Kim Moonsoo stated, "It is impossible to have a dialogue with Jeong Cheongrae, who is an extreme leftist terrorist," and argued, "This is not an issue of dialogue; he needs to be replaced."
Jang Donghyuk said, "In principle, recognizing Jeong as a counterpart for dialogue is an illusion," adding, "To be able to negotiate with a large ruling party, a balance of power must be achieved." He continued, "Negotiations are only possible when our party's approval rating rises and we can properly keep the Democratic Party in check."
On the other hand, Ahn Cheolsoo, who held up an 'O' indicating that dialogue with Jeong Cheongrae is necessary, said, "Although Jeong has made dictatorial remarks that are far from parliamentary tradition, we must still engage in dialogue." He added, "Since I have served as party leader four times, I am confident I can defeat Jeong, who is a novice."
Cho Kyungtae also emphasized, "If politicians cannot acknowledge each other, it makes things difficult and unsettling for the people." He continued, "Although the People Power Party is a minority opposition party, if we gain the people's support, we can become a strong opposition. We must stabilize people's livelihoods through bipartisan cooperation."
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